06/05/2026
Up to my eyeballs in dogs today, 13! I think I'm more worn out than them from today, haha. Remember, dogs all handle heat differently. Not only from breed to breed, but individual to individual. Age, fitness level, willingness to hydrate, and more, all play a role in your dogs heat tolerance.
Multiple trips ensures we all get out today, but more importantly, by doing multiple outings spread through the day, we SAFELY get our exercise in this heat.
Dogs are able to cool off in the ocean during walks. After their exercise, they return to a van that's been kept around 70*F. In the van is fresh water, maximum shade from reflective window covers, and a rooftop AC that runs even when the van is off.
I have a Waggle (temperature monitor) that will text me if the van temp is climbing over 79*F. I also installed a battery shunt, and using a phone app, I can monitor battery draw of the AC remotely. I can see the current, voltage, power so I don't have to worry or guess if the AC has cut out; I can simply check in real time.
All these tools combined give me confidence in keeping the dogs safe from the heat.
While humans may be comfortable with a slight sweat in a 80* van with the windows down, we need to remember that dogs do not sweat. What may be really comfortable for us, is not necessarily comfortable for them.
A safe dog is a happy dog. I've spent a lot of time, energy (stress) and money to make sure I keep these dogs as safe as possible.
