Dog heat stroke can happen very quickly on these hot summer days. With summer upon us, we need to remember that just like us, our dogs can become overheated if out in the sun too long.  This fact was brought to my attention just this morning when our Border Collie Pepper was helping us trail a herd of cattle home. We got a late start, the sun was already getting hot, and we were not yet close to home. The cows were resistant and even with the help of us on our horses, Pepper had her work cut out for her. Pepper was more than glad to have a ride back to the ranch, where she immediately lay down in a tub of cool water.

Dogs sometimes do not know enough to get out of the heat so it is important that we provide them with a shaded place to be when they are left outside. It is also important to keep fresh cool water available for them to drink; leaving a dish of water where the sun can reach it is not a good option. If you need to take your dog with you and it is hot out, be sure to take some extra drinking water along for them.  If your dog, like Pepper, gets too hot, be sure and take them in out of the sun and give them a bath in cool water. If they still seem unfit, take them to see your veterinarian right away. The best cure for dog heat stroke is prevention.