The Ultimate Guide For Keeping Your Greyhound Cool, Safe and Happy in Hot Weather
- greyhoundpaddy
- Sep 17, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 19, 2023
Unlike humans, dogs only sweat through the glands on the pads on their feet and
nose and rely on panting to cool themselves, making them more sensitive to higher temperatures. Greyhounds are particularly sensitive in hot weather due to their low body fat and single layer of fur, which makes insulating themselves against the heat more challenging. Greyhounds therefore require extra care and attention during hot weather to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Here, we will discuss the signs of heat related illness and ways to keep your greyhound safe, cool and comfortable in hot weather.
How “hot” is “hot weather” for greyhounds?
Greyhounds may be at risk of heat stroke at temperatures of 20°C, therefore you should ideally walk your hound in temperatures lower than this. There are several additional factors that can affect heat stress in greyhounds such as age, size, clinical conditions, overall health and fitness and the amount and nature of exercise being undertaken.
Paddy says: Having a black coat means I absorb heat faster and I am therefore more vulnerable to overheating. I am much more sensitive to heat than my hoomans and though I live in Scotland, I don’t go to dog parks and longer walks when the temperature is higher.
What is heat stress?
Heat stress is the first stage of overheating in dogs. At this stage, greyhounds will show increased thirst and panting. A greyhound showing signs of heat stress, may pant heavily, move into the shade, become restless and may whine, lie down, or seek / drink water.
Paddy says: When I’m lying out in the garden on a sunny day, my hoomans look out for me and take me inside the home into a cool area and offer me cool water when they see me start panting and breathing heavier. I enjoy lying in the sun!
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is the second stage and means your greyhound is overheating further. Your hound will still be able to walk and seek water. A hound experiencing heat exhaustion will have a rectal temperature of no more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heatstroke and interventions are required to assist your greyhound to reduce their body temperature and prevent heatstroke, which can be life threatening. It is therefore important to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion so that you may cool your greyhound.
What are the signs of heat exhaustion?
* Heavy or excessive panting
* Drooling (hypersalivation)
* Loss of energy, lethargy
* Rapid heart rate
* Skin feels hot to the touch
* Dehydration: dry nose, visible signs of tiredness, sunken eyes
* Vomiting
* Diarrhoea
How to treat heat exhaustion
If you are concerned that your greyhound is showing signs of overheating, immediately take him / her to a shady place, ideally with a breeze and offer them cool water. It may be preferable to take your hound indoors, to a cooler room, and use a fan. Pour cool water over your greyhound to lower their body temperature. Do not use ice or cold water as this can lead to shock. Placing towels with cold water on your hound is not recommended as these may trap heat and can worsen his / her condition. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Do NOT give ice or cold water. Call your vet for advice. Even if your greyhound seems to be recovering, they may need to be monitored for possible complications of heat exhaustion that may prevent your pet from making a full recovery.
What is Heatstroke in Dogs?
Heatstroke is a term that describes hyperthermia; a dangerously high body temperature above 104°F. This means that your greyhound can no longer cool themselves and their life is in danger.
What are the signs of heatstroke?
* Excessive panting
* Drooling
* Red gums and mucous membranes
* Rapid breathing
* Disorientation
* Collapse
* Diarrhoea
* Vomiting
* Seizures
* Collapse
* Possible loss of consciousness
How to treat heatstroke
If you notice any of the above signs, move your greyhound to a cool area, keep them still, pour cool water over their feet, ears and head and contact your vet immediately. You can then proceed to wet their coat with cool water and if your hound is responsive, offer small amounts of cool water. Continue to cool your pet on the way to the vet.
Heatstroke can be life threatening if left untreated, so it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect your greyhound is suffering from heatstroke.
Heat stress, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be prevented and there are several strategies that you can undertake to help prevent your greyhound from overheating in hot weather.
How to cool your greyhound
Hydration is Key
Provide your greyhound with plenty of fresh, cool water throughout the day. Remember to take plenty water with you when out walking or travelling by car or public transport. A portable travel bowl is helpful.
Paddy says: I have a portable collapsible plastic bowl that my hoomans take with us when we go out in warmer weather. They carry a bottle of cool water for me!
Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat
Avoid exposing your greyhound to excessive heat, especially during peak hours. Walks and exercise should be scheduled during cooler times of the day, such as early mornings or evenings when temperatures are lower. This helps prevent overheating and potential paw pad burns on scorching pavements. Place your hand on the pavement; if it’s too hot for you to hold it there for 5 seconds, then it’s too hot for your hound! Be mindful of limiting time spent outside. Leaving your greyhound outside for a lengthy period of time in hot weather, even in the shade, can lead to overheating. Your hound is not able to tell you when they are overheating so it’s best to take steps to prevent overheating and limit time outside and exercise when temperatures are higher.
Paddy says: I love walking, running, and having zoomies outdoors. My hoomans take me into the shade or indoors to keep me safe. During the summer months I go to the dog park in the early mornings or evenings when the temperature is not as high.
Create a Cool Retreat
Designate a cool area in your home where your greyhound can retreat to when the weather gets too hot. Set up a comfortable bed or cooling mat in a well-ventilated room or near a fan, ensuring there is sufficient shade and airflow. Consider using a cooling bandana.
Paddy says: I have a cooling mat that I like to use. It is in the lounge and large enough for me to stretch out on. I also use a bandana which helps keep me cool. Please visit this link to see details. https://amzn.to/44Zb19o
Never Leave Your Greyhound in a Parked Car
Never leave your greyhound alone in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside a vehicle can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke and potentially fatal consequences. If you must run errands or travel, it's best to leave your greyhound at home in a cool and safe environment. If you are travelling by car with your greyhound, remember to ensure the car is cool prior to starting your journey.
Paddy says: Hoodad switches on the air conditioning for us before we set off! This means its cooler inside when I get into the boot. I also have a cover that I stand on before I jump into the car.
Utilise Cooling Techniques
Implement various cooling techniques to help your greyhound beat the heat. Wetting their paws with cool water may help to keep your pet cool. Providing a shallow pool or a kiddie pool to splash in may also help, though not all hounds may appreciate this! The use of a fan pointed at your hound’s bed may help, as well as the use of cooling mats, coats or bandanas.
Paddy says: I use a battery powered fan which helps keep me cool. It means I can snooze outside!
Cut sausages thrown in cool water may encourage your hound to drink and will help cool him / her down. Frozen treats such as doggy ice-cream or frozen pieces of meat or cheese may also help your greyhound to stay cool.
DO NOT submerge your hound in water to cool them down. This can send them into shock, which is life threatening.
Conclusion
By following these effective strategies, you can ensure your greyhound stays safe and comfortable in higher temperatures. Remember, a little extra care and attention go a long way in protecting our beloved pet from the heat. Enjoy the summer with your greyhound while keeping them cool and happy!
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