Beat the Heat

by Shannon Pecora, M.A.

Stream Valley Veterinary Hospital

            Looking for something a little more fun than air conditioning to help your dog beat the heat this summer?  Maybe he can share in one of your favorite summer pastimes: swimming!

            Many dogs will appreciate a simple plastic baby pool in the backyard.  Make sure you help them in and out of the pool to help prevent slipping and injuries.  They’ll love splashing around and spending some quality exercise time with you, while staying cool at the same time.  You can even reuse those few gallons to water your lawn, garden, and houseplants once playtime is over!

            If you’re looking for a more formal option, check out places like the Northern Virginia Animal Swim Center (Middleburg, VA; http://animalswimcenter.com/).  You may not be able to hop in the water with your dog, but these pools are large and deep enough that he can actually paddle through some laps.  Once you work out a plan with your dog’s veterinarian and the swim center staff, you should find that swimming is an excellent, low-impact activity that’s even good for dogs who are older or have joint problems.

            If you decide to let your dog swim in a pond or lake, make sure you do your homework about water conditions and local wildlife.  Also, check with your vet that your dog is up to date on any necessary vaccinations, testings, and preventatives.  If you are unsure about any of these things, don’t take any chances!  You don’t want fun and exercise to lead to illness or injury.

            No matter where your dog gets to play in the water, make sure that he is clean and dry afterwards.  Pay particular attention to the eyes and ears.  You may want to flush your dog’s eyes with a plain saline solution, and you should flush his ears with a proper cleaning solution and cotton balls or cosmetic pads.  This will help prevent moisture build-up inside the ear canals that can lead to infection and inflammation.  Again, check with your vet about appropriate products and techniques.

            We know it can be dangerous to bring your dog for a hike or jog in sweltering summer temperatures, but that doesn’t mean that he has to be stuck inside the house all day.  Keep up the exercise routines and keep your dog happy with a dip in the pool.  Even if it’s just once or twice this season, it could be exactly the summertime treat that your dog is hoping for!