There’s nothing more exciting than a summer adventure with your pet, but just like us, pets need a little extra care when having fun in the sun. Orlando summers can be intense so it’s important to make sure your pup has everything they need to stay cool and healthy.
Do:
- Have Water Available, Always: Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water. Dogs can get dehydrated a lot quicker than humans. Bring water on car rides, walks, and other outings. Give them access to water when in the hotel room, too.
- Bring Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Medications: Unfortunately, fleas, ticks, and mosquitos (which can spread heartworms and other illness) love the summer just as much as we do. To protect your dog, make sure they are up to date on any medications and vaccinations. When traveling, be sure to bring vet records and any medications with you.
- Early Morning and Late Evening Walks: Avoid the afternoon heat by taking early morning and late evening walks. During summer in Orlando, the sun sets around 8:00 p.m. so you’ll still enjoy sunlight during evening walks while avoiding the intense heat.
- Be Prepared for Fireworks and Thunderstorms: Summertime in Orlando means lots of fireworks and thunderstorms. If your dog doesn’t like loud sounds, make sure they have a cozy, quiet space where they can feel secure. Herbal supplements prescribed by your vet and dog anxiety shirts can help. Never bring your dog to an event with fireworks.
Don’t:
- Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car: In 85 degree weather, the temperature inside a parked car can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit in just 30 minutes. In addition to being dangerous and potentially deadly, leaving a dog in a hot car in Florida is against local and state laws and could result in a fine.
- Shave Your Dog: A dogs’ coat protects them from overheating and sunburn, so instead of shaving, opt for a trim. Help keep your dog cool by brushing daily to remove excess hair.
- Walk on Asphalt: Just like our own tender feet, a dog’s sensitive paw pads can easily burn on hot asphalt. Stick to the grassy, shady areas on walks. Avoid walking on asphalt during the hottest times of the day.
- Ignore the Signs of Heat Exhaustion: Excessive panting, red gums, thick drool, wobbly legs, and vomiting are all signs of heat exhaustion. If your dog exhibits any of these, get out of the sun and into a cool, air-conditioned space. Give them a drink of water and take them to the nearest vet.
Remember, Some Dogs are More Sensitive to Heat
Elderly, overweight, and dogs with heart or lung issues don’t take to the heat well. High temperatures can exacerbate symptoms, so these dogs need as much air-conditioning as possible.
Additionally, breeds with flat faces, like pugs, boxers, and bulldogs aren’t able to pant as effectively, making them more at risk for heat stroke. Take extra precautions when venturing outdoors with at-risk dogs in the summer. Keep an eye on the clock and make sure you provide plenty of time for you both to cool down in the shade.
Book a Pet-Friendly Hotel for Maximum Comfort
When traveling with your pet this summer, you’ll want to pick a hotel where you both feel welcome and have all the amenities you need. Midpointe Hotel, a Rosen property, has designated pet-friendly rooms for your Orlando vacation. Located near the dog walk areas for your convenience, you and your dog will enjoy the spacious rooms and cool air conditioning on those warm summer days. Learn more about our pet friendly accommodations and call 407-351-5100 to book your stay.
