Reno Summers: Hot, Dry, and Smoky
Summer in Reno can be intense, featuring constant dry air, wildfire smoke that can linger for days or even weeks, and sometimes reaching triple-digit temperatures. For dog owners, this brings unique challenges when you have a dog who thrives on daily exercise and outdoor activities. So… ALL dogs, but especially puppies and adolescents that NEED something to do.
Know the Risks of Summer Exercise
It’s important to be aware of these potential risks when you exercise your dog in the summer:
- Heatstroke. Dogs are more prone to overheating than humans, especially during strenuous activity. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, and collapse.
- Dehydration. Hot, dry air increases the risk of your dog becoming dehydrated, especially if water isn’t readily available during or after exercise.
- Respiratory irritation from wildfire smoke. Dogs can suffer from coughing, throat irritation, and breathing difficulties when exposed to smoky or polluted air.
- Aggravated health conditions. Dogs with respiratory issues, heart problems, or short noses (like pugs and bulldogs) are especially vulnerable to both heat and poor air quality.
- Burned paw pads. Pavement and asphalt temperatures can rise rapidly, even when air temperatures feel tolerable. Paws can be painfully burned in seconds.
Indoor Activities to Beat the Heat
Keep in mind, staying inside when necessary doesn’t mean going stir-crazy. This is a great time to focus on indoor enrichment.
Training games, trick training, and nose work are all excellent ways to burn energy and build your relationship without leaving the house. Summer is a great time to enroll in one of our advanced specialty classes like Super Tricks or Intro to Nose Work — they’ll give you ample homework to keep your dog busy inside your home!
Enrichment activities like food puzzles, frozen Kongs, and “find it” games can also keep your dog mentally stimulated and satisfied without requiring so much time and energy from you. The popular Facebook group Canine Enrichment can keep you inspired with ideas.
The Best Times and Ways to Go Outdoors
In Reno we are lucky to have the option to go to higher elevation for relief from the worst of the heat. Places like Mt. Rose or Galena Creek can be noticeably cooler, especially in the mornings. Make sure to bring ample water for both you and your dog, and offer it to your dog often!
If your dog enjoys water, summer is a great time for kiddie pools, sprinkler games, or swimming. Keep swimming and other water games brief with rest mixed in to make sure you don’t put your dog at risk of water intoxication.
Rest is Productive, Too
Don’t underestimate the value of rest. It’s okay for both you and your dog to slow down a bit during extreme weather. You’re not falling behind—you’re adapting to the season.
Many dogs are more content than you might think to relax alongside you while you watch TV or read a book. Don’t feel guilty if this makes you both happy!
Prioritize Safety and Connection with You
Your dog will benefit from a thoughtful, balanced approach to summer. But if you find yourself struggling to meet their needs, reach out. Enrolling in a class might be just the ticket to give you something productive to do together.