Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Car this Summer

Newsflash: Arizona is really hot. Oh, you knew that? If so, then you probably already knew that this heat isn’t ideal for your dog, even though bringing your dog in the car is undeniably a great time. So, how do you best make sure that you are keeping your dog safe in the car this summer? Here are a few things to consider before you bring your dog in the car, from your friends here at Avondale Nissan.

When summer heat is considered, it all comes back to heat stroke. Dogs acquire heat stroke easily; they’re covered in fur, they don’t expel heat or sweat like we do, and they are active regardless of the temperature. Additionally, they can’t exactly point out how uncomfortable they are, so you need to be on your toes to see that potential temperature issues your dog might be having. Heavy panting, labored breathing, disorientation, lethargy, vomiting, red gums and tongue, seizures and respiratory shock are some of the more common symptoms of heat stroke. Although all dogs are susceptible to heat stroke, dogs with short nostrils, heavy coats and advanced ages are more prone than others.
To keep your dog from getting heat stroke, there is one sure-fire way to avoid it: don’t leave your dog in the car. Don’t ever, ever leave your dog in the car. If you’re going somewhere where you can’t bring your dog along with you, leave the dog at home. A car heats up in a hurry, and experts estimate that an outdoor temp of 82 degrees can quickly become as high as 109 degrees inside an enclosed vehicle.
If your dog is coming along for the ride, however, there are ways to keep it comfortable. Make sure that you have plenty of water in your car, and keep a weighted bowl that doesn’t spill in the back seat. Also, have your dog groomed early in the summer if it has matted or thick fur, and if your dog is one that has a pink nose or ears, invest in some pet-safe sunblock as well.
Last and certainly not least, if you happen to see a dog that is entrapped in a car and looks to be in danger of heat stroke, for Pete’s sake, call the authorities. Better to have an upset owner than a dog that succumbs to the heat. We hope that these tips help you and your dog have a great summer in the months ahead, and hope to see you soon at Avondale Nissan!

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