How to keep your dog safe during this Texas heat

How to keep your dog safe during this heat:
Dogs don’t have any sweat glands on their body like we do. Interestingly, the only part of a dog's body that has sweat glands are their paw pads. In addition, they cool off and lower their body temperature by panting.
Because of this, it is very important to never restrict panting in hot weather! If your dog needs to wear a muzzle, make sure it’s a well fitting basket muzzle that allows panting, and always ask a professional if needed. If putting boots/shoes on your dog to protect their feet from hot surfaces, only keep them on for a very short period of time. Also, it may seem a bit obvious but make sure your dog drinks plenty of water, especially after being in the heat. Not all dogs drink enough water so to prevent them from dehydrating, try to entice them! In addition to having water available at all times, make sure there’s shade and adequate ventilation available when your dog is staying outside.
Due to the Texas heat being brutal, it is crucial to know the warning signs of a dog going into heat stress/exhaustion! They are: bright red ears, excessive panting/difficulty breathing, poor response, tacky/dry mucous membranes, glazed look in their eyes, shade hunting, and trying to cool off by laying down and extending all extremities. If your dog is experiencing a heat stroke which may show symptoms like disorientation/weakness, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, fast heart and breathing rate, body temp above 105F in combination with the above named symptoms, please bring your dog to the vet ASAP, this is a medical EMERGENCY!
Ways to cool down your dog : Apply cold water to their belly and between the rear legs because these areas are the closest to the organs and major arteries. It does not make much sense to apply cold water to their back because the don’t have any sweat glands on their skin and it’s much further away from their organs. Bring your dog inside an air conditioned environment if possible. Entice your dog to drink water by mixing wet dog or cat food (stores sell little pouches of that which are convenient when on the go) in their water or mix it with some beef/chicken broth for flavor. Don’t give your dog ice water since that may lead to shock or upset stomach, better give chilled water. Make your dog lay on a cold surface like a wet towel but don’t drape the towel over the dog since that may trap heat underneath it. Best is also to monitor your dog’s temperature with a thermometer, if available. Dogs regular body temperature ranges from 101F to 103F. When cooling your dog off, you need to avoid your dog going into shock.
This information is based on my education and experience as a long time dog trainer and handler.
For more information, please consult with your veterinarian.
Stay safe and have fun with your dog(s)!