Heat Wave Protocol
Those who have been customers a while will already have a good idea of Harbour Tails hot weather precautions. For newer joiners here is a guide to how we safely work around heat wave conditions. Harbour Tails has not yet had any incidents of heat stroke over the years by using these measures.
The Vehcile
The dog van has been specially insulated similarly to our personal camper van. This is to keep the beating sun from heating up the inside and helps the air conditioning remain cool inside. We also have an in-van electric power hose. Although this is normally used for cleaning dogs, it doubles as a nice cool off for the dog’s paws and belly after a warner walk. Dogs have access to water in their crates and on walks.
The Walks
A portable water bowl is carried. Water breaks are increased with the temperature.
All year I check the forecast every night to ensure we are suitably prepared. For hot weather, I look at the predictions and confirm the schedule the night before as usual.
For temperatures predicted up to 24 degrees, the schedule normally remains as normal. As temperatures exceed the teens, we will hang around in shady wooded areas and walks may be shorter (distance and time wise).
For predictions of highs exceeding 24/25 degrees this is where we will see some big shedue adjustments. If its cool enough in the mornings, I will normally run an early group, starting the walk at around 0700. If temperatures allow, a second morning group will run at around 0900. Once temperature exceeds 25 degrees in leiu of walks there will be “comfort break” services available for dogs home alone during the day. Another option, like last year, in lieu of a group walk, small groups of well behaved dogs have come back to my house to hang out in our cool kitchen and shadey garden so they are still able to do enrichemnt activites and have change of scene.
Unfortunately this does mean that usual morning solo and training walks may be cancelled or rearranged during heat waves to accomodate groups. Sometimes training walks are moved to evenings if temperatues are cool enough.
Occasionally the forecast hasnt predicted “high” temperatures the night before so Ive had to cancel walks on the day. In these instances, as mentioned above, comfort breaks w or time at my home will be available.
Heat Stroke Symptoms
All dogs are different. Age, breed, coat type and colour, activity levels will all effect how your dog will cope. You know your dogs best so if you think the heat will be too uncomfotable for your dog even if its within “walking termperature” , just let me know and we can arrange something else for them.
Heat exhaustion can rapidly progress to heat stroke and become an emergency situation. Be aware of the following signs:
Excessive panting
Your dog becomes anxious
Lack of response to commands
Rapid heartbeat
High fever
Possible vomiting and diarrhea
Collapse
If you think your dog has heat stroke you must act quickly and calmly. If possible, move your dog to a cool, shaded area. If your dog is having difficulty breathing, ensure its airways are clear. Your dog’s temperature needs to be reduced gradually. This can be done by applying towels soaked in cool water to the dog, ensuring that they cover the hairless areas (groin and feet).Seek veterinary advice immediately.
If you have any questions or concerns, just pop me a message.
Love, Dani & Cali