- Dogs do not sweat, dogs keep cool by panting. If they are in hot weather and unable to find shade or a cool spot, the effects of the heat make it difficult for them to stay cool. Just like a human, dogs must keep hydrated. Even though they do not sweat, they still lose body fluids through panting and drooling and, as most dogs are prone to do, frequent urination. Be sure to carry plenty of water and food for you and your pet.
- Altitude will affect dogs the same as it does for humans. For those who are visiting from lower elevations, thin air will lower their energy and make breathing harder.
- Remember that your dog is not wearing shoes. Even though they have thick pads on the bottom of their feet, it is still living flesh and is sensitive to heat and dry conditions. If you find yourself and your pet out walking or hiking in high heat conditions, you can check to see if the ground is suitable to walk on by placing the back of your hand on the surface you are traveling on. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for their feet. Note that the hot ground, especially asphalt, concrete, and hot sand, can cause the pads of their feet to blister and crack. This makes them susceptible to infections should that happen.
- Always keep your pet within view. If you are in a wilderness area, remember there are other animals that call the area home and will not be accommodating to an intruder. This includes venomous snakes and insects. Do not allow your dog to get themselves into a situation you may not be able to easily get them out of.
- Always have a first aid kit with you and include items for your pet. Should your pet become injured, do not move them until you know it will not cause further injury. Most insect bites can be treated with a simple antihistamine, however it may be more serious than it initially looks, so seek the advice of your veterinarian as soon as possible. Snake bites are usually much more serious and will require a veterinarians help as soon as possible. For more serious injuries that cannot be easily treated such as serious bleeding or broken bones, seek immediate help. If the need arises, Search and Rescue will come to the aid, but this should be reserved for true emergent situations. Salt Lake County Sheriff SAR Rescue Mastiff
- Allow your pet to take frequent breaks. Most dogs will do everything they can to please their human counterparts and are unable to effectively communicate that they may be tired, hungry, or thirsty. Be conscious of your pet’s body language and actions and allow them to set the pace in hot weather or unstable terrain and if they stop in a shady area, allow them some time to rest.
- Be aware of your dog’s age. Like humans, as dogs get older, their bones can become more brittle, and their muscles and joints deteriorate. Even though they may have been able to keep up when they were younger, as they get older, they will have a harder time doing so but will continue to try.
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