How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Minnesota’s Heat this Weekend

This weekend is going to be the warmest weekend in Minnesota so far this year. Since it's been a while since we've dealt with this kind of heat, I wanted to remind dog parents how to keep your dog safe this weekend.

ALSO READ: 12 Deadliest Animals in Minnesota

Minnesota's Hottest Weekend of the Year

Across the state, we're going to be hitting the 90s, and if not the 90s it'll be in the upper 80s all weekend long. I know plenty of people don't like that kind of heat but I love it! I'm looking forward to finally having some REAL summer heat.

Of course, with heat like this, you need to be careful if you're out and about. Make sure you've got plenty of water, stay hydrated, take breaks if you're out working in the heat, and wear light and loose clothing.

Safety precautions for the heat go for your dog too.

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How to Keep Your Dog Safe in Hot Weather

One important tip to remember for this weekend, and any time there's hot weather, is the 7-second rule.

All you do is go outside and see if you can hold your hand against the pavement for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for you to hold your hand there that long, then it's too hot for your dog's paws. Dogs can burn their paws if the pavement is too hot.

The other important tip, and the one I wanted to focus on in this story, is preventing heat stroke in your dog. Dogs basically have a winter jacket on at all times, so how can you protect them from overheating?

How to Protect Your Dog from Heat Stroke

Here are some tips I found thanks to Calder Vets:

Don't leave your dog in enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces, like cars.

Don't do any strenuous activity with them outside. No need for a long walk on super hot days.

If you do still need to or want to take your dog out on a walk, wait until a cooler part of the day. After the sun goes down would be ideal.

Make sure your dog has access to plenty of cold water.

If they're outside, make sure they have shaded spots to get out of the sun.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Even if you take all of these precautions, things can still happen. So here are the signs to keep an eye on that may indicate your dog has heat stroke. This comes from the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of the Greater Twin Cities:

Heavy panting, difficulty breathing, or excessive thirst.

A bright red tongue and mucus membranes. Those will turn grey as shock sets in.

Drooling, vomiting, thick saliva, and/or diarrhea.

Unsteadiness

Lethargy

What You Should Do if Your Dog Gets Heat Stroke

If you notice any of these symptoms and think your dog may have heat stroke, the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine says that medical intervention is needed, so contact your vet.

You also should work to cool your dog right away. Wet them with cool water and put them in front of the AC, including in the car when you take them to the vet.

Dogs Most At Risk of Heat Stroke

Dogs that are more at risk of getting heat stroke include dogs with short noses, dogs with long fur, and young dogs. So keep an extra eye on them this weekend.