Too Hot for Paws? What Every Tri-Cities Dog Owner Needs to Know

Summer is around the corner in the Columbia Basin, and my dogs (I have three) couldn’t care less about the heat, but I still have to make sure they don’t overheat in the Tri-Cities sun.

The Tri-Cities Summer Heat Test Every Dog Owner Should Know

My dog, Barkley, loves his ball, and I have to take it from him several times in the summer because he’ll keep going until he collapses (he’s done it a time or two), so I have to make sure I watch him.

Can Your Dog Handle Today’s Tri-Cities Heat? Here’s How to Tell

As temperatures get near 100, remember it’s way hotter for your pooch because of their thick coats.

Dogs can overheat quickly, so here are a few tips to know if your dog is overheating, as provided by the Benton-Franklin Humane Society:

Keep an eye out for warning signs like excessive panting, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, bright red gums or tongue, and thick, sticky saliva. If you notice any of these symptoms, act immediately.

Move your dog to a cool, shaded area

Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body

Place cool towels on their head, neck, and chest

Offer small amounts of cool water

Contact your veterinarian right away

READ MORE: Swiss Roll Is Up For Adoption At The Tri-Cities Animal Shelter

The big mistake we as pet owners make is leaving our pets in the car or truck when we run into the store.

You can walk your dogs in the early mornings or late afternoons. Always carry extra water with you, and remember the hot pavement will burn their paws.

Hopefully, these tips will keep your pooches safe during the hot summer. My dogs still want to go outside, but I’m doing my best to stop them from being crazy in the heat.