With warm temperatures showing no imminent signs of abating, we’ve given over plenty of time to explain how to hike in hot weather safely. Carry extra water, wear a hat and breathable layers, know the signs of heatstroke. Hikers frequently succumb to heat-related illnesses on the trail, but they’re not the only ones at risk – if you like to go hiking with your dog, you’ll need to be extra cautious when hot weather hits.
Dogs being left in hot cars usually make the headlines, but according to a 2020 study, the most common cause of heatstroke in dogs is being exercised by their owners. Unlike you, your dog cannot cool itself down by sweating, and panting isn’t as efficient, so your four-legged friend is much more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Clearly, when you add an activity like hiking to heat, you raise the risk level because the strenuous activity will tire them out and dehydrate them further, so you need to take extra care.
