Summer 2023

Dogs Sweat?

People sweat to keep cool, but pets respond to heat differently than people do. Dogs, for instance, sweat through their feet. Yes, through their feet! It makes sense because most dogs are covered in fur, so if sweat glands were located on their bodies, the sweat would fail to evaporate. Cooling takes place when sweat evaporates. That’s why it is much more efficient for dogs to have sweat glands in their paw pads where there is little fur. Dogs sweat primarily through their paw pads, but they also use panting to help with temperature regulation. If you rely on a fan to keep your pet cool, it may not be working. Fans don’t cool off pets as effectively as they do people because of how their bodies regulate heat.

THROW SOME SHADE

Any time your pet is outside, make sure they have ample protection from the suns rays.

KEEP COOL INSIDE AND OUT

Whip up a batch of quick and easy DIY pup-sicles or give them an ice cube to munch. You can even freeze gravy in an ice tray for a quick treat! Either way make sure the portion size is appropriate for your pet to avoid any choking hazards.

Here is my recipe for quick and easy pup-sicles:

• Banana and Peanut Butter Pup-sicles
• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (without artificial sweeteners)

Mix ingredients together and put into a silicone mold in the freezer until solid, usually 3 to 4 hours.

Disclaimer: Always consult your vet if you have any questions or concerns about what you’re feeding your pet. Also, dogs should always be supervised while eating frozen treats. Do not let them wander off with a half-eaten treat as uneaten pieces can melt and stain your carpets.

DO NOT use peanut butter or any product that has been sweetened with xylitol, as it is toxic to dogs.