How can dog walking businesses handle dogs that are not used to walking in the heat?

Handling dogs that are not used to walking in the heat requires careful planning, awareness of the risks, and proactive measures to ensure their safety and comfort. Heat can be particularly dangerous for dogs, as they are more susceptible to overheating than humans due to their limited ability to sweat. Here’s a detailed guide on how dog walking businesses can manage this situation effectively.

1. Understanding the Risks of Heat for Dogs
Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. In hot weather, they can quickly overheat, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be life-threatening. Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers), older dogs, puppies, and dogs with thick coats are especially vulnerable. Recognizing the signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse, is critical.

2. Assessing the Dog’s Tolerance to Heat
Before taking a dog out in hot weather, evaluate its tolerance. Ask the owner about the dog’s history with heat, any medical conditions, and their typical activity level. Observe the dog’s behavior during initial walks to gauge how it handles warmer temperatures. If the dog shows signs of discomfort, adjust the walking schedule or duration accordingly.

3. Timing Walks Appropriately
Plan walks during the coolest parts of the day, typically early morning or late evening. Avoid midday walks when the sun is at its peak and temperatures are highest. This reduces the risk of overheating and ensures the dog is more comfortable. If the weather is exceptionally hot, consider shortening the walk or skipping it altogether.

4. Choosing the Right Walking Route
Select shaded paths with plenty of trees or buildings that provide cover from direct sunlight. Avoid hot pavement, as it can burn a dog’s paw pads. Test the pavement by placing your hand on it for 7 seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for the dog. Opt for grassy or dirt trails instead.

5. Hydration is Key
Always carry fresh water and a portable bowl for the dog. Offer water before, during, and after the walk to prevent dehydration. Encourage the dog to drink, but do not force it. If the dog seems reluctant to drink, try wetting its paws or applying a damp cloth to its body to help cool it down.

6. Using Cooling Gear
Consider using cooling vests, bandanas, or mats designed for dogs. These products are soaked in water and help regulate body temperature during walks. Ensure the gear fits properly and does not restrict the dog’s movement.

7. Monitoring the Dog’s Behavior
Pay close attention to the dog’s body language and energy levels during the walk. If the dog starts panting heavily, slowing down, or seeking shade, it’s time to stop and rest. Find a cool, shaded area and allow the dog to recover before continuing or ending the walk.

8. Educating Clients
Inform dog owners about the risks of walking in the heat and the importance of acclimating their dogs gradually. Encourage them to provide cooling solutions at home, such as fans or air conditioning, and to avoid leaving their dogs in hot cars or outdoor spaces without shade.

9. Emergency Preparedness
Be prepared to handle heat-related emergencies. Carry a first aid kit with items like a thermometer, cooling towels, and contact information for the dog’s veterinarian. If a dog shows signs of heatstroke, move it to a cool area, offer water, and use cool (not cold) water to lower its body temperature. Seek veterinary care immediately.

10. Long-Term Care and Prevention
For dogs that will be walked regularly in warmer climates, gradual acclimatization is essential. Start with shorter walks and slowly increase the duration as the dog becomes more accustomed to the heat. Regular grooming, especially for dogs with thick coats, can also help them stay cooler.

When to Seek Professional Help
If a dog exhibits severe symptoms of overheating, such as unresponsiveness, seizures, or difficulty breathing, stop the walk immediately and contact a veterinarian. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires prompt professional intervention.

By following these guidelines, dog walking businesses can ensure the safety and well-being of dogs in their care, even in hot weather. Prioritizing the dog’s health and comfort not only builds trust with clients but also demonstrates a commitment to responsible pet care.