I have a black boxer who gets hot really easily but loves to bask in the sun. Any tips to keep her cool? I would love to be able to take her more places in the summer.
gettingvetted here.
Unfortunately, boxers (and other brachycephalics) are not set up to enjoy the summer heat and should be kept indoors in a cool area when possible, just for their own safety. This is not the type of dog that should be running around at the lake when it’s 98F and “feels like” 108F. Seeing if there is an area indoors where she can bask in the sunlight from a window, or only allowing her out for 5-10 minutes at a time in the cooler parts of the day (early morning and late evening) will help keep her safer. Keeping fresh, cool water available at all times will also help.
If a pet is suspected to be overheating, bring them to a shaded or indoor area and drench them in cool (not cold) water and blow fans on them. Do not use ice packs anywhere or alcohol on the paw pads, as this only draws the blood vessels further into the body to retain more heat. Any attempts to cool down the dog should be done on the way to a vet hospital for more aggressive intervention if it is necessary.
