Question:
How hot is too hot? Our golden retriever tends to stay outdoors in our screened-in back porch. At what point should she be allowed into the interior of our home? Is the garage (with fan) acceptable as we want to avoid dealing with the hair?

A:  I would recommend keeping your dog indoors while the temperature is above 85 degrees outside. 

Heat not only affects people, but animals can suffer heat related illnesses as well.  I recommend ensuring any dogs or cats that spend time outdoors to be kept inside once the temperature rises above 85 degrees.  Especially for dogs and cats with longer hair.  Unlike people, dogs and cats cannot sweat to cool themselves when they get hot.  Dogs will pant in attempt to cool their bloodstream, but when the air is hot it is not an effective cooling mechanism. 

I would recommend placing your dog in an area where there is air conditioning when the weather gets hot.  The garage can also get hot, even with a fan.  Make sure your dog has enough cool water all day long, and an area of shade where he/she can lay where it is cooler.

For dogs and cats with long hair, it is recommend to shave their coat during the summer months, not only to keep them cool and prevent the development of skin infections, but also to reduce shedding.

Check out the blogpost on heat-related stress incidents.

~Dr. Page Wages

Oberlin Animal Hospital

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