Frannie Says: Skip The Hot Dogs This Summer

Written by Frannie on July 12, 2023

Frannie

Everyone knows that some summer days (and nights) in Minnesota can be real scorchers. But did you know that dogs feel heat even more intensely than humans? That’s right, our pups not only overheat more quickly than we do, they have a harder time cooling themselves down. Additionally, your individual dog’s needs—weight, overall health, breed, and more—may make them particularly susceptible to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

According to the American Kennel Club, “The most common cause of heatstroke is confining a dog to an enclosed car.”

For the times your furry companion is with you in the car this summer, here are some good tips on keeping them safe and cool.

If it’s too hot for your dog to accompany you in the car while you are in town or on a road trip, bring them to Downtown Dogs for daycare or boarding. We love to help pups socialize while they “play it cool” in our climate controlled environment. We take care to keep the dogs comfortable with air conditioned playrooms and plenty of easily accessible, fresh drinking water.

The advice provided is based on many years of experience as dog parents and operators of one of the largest and longest established dog daycare and boarding facilities in the Twin Cities. Always consult your veterinarian. When not sharing advice, our dog bloggers — Frannie, Lyle, and Helen — share a space with their people, Downtown Dogs owner Ralph Bernstein and his wife, Abbe.