# Policy Change at Voyagers Today we are rolling out a new measuring process called Ship to Fit. Let us do the work for you from start to finish! See our video for more info and Happy April 1st! # National Take a Walk in the Park Day Join us in celebrating National Take a Walk in the Park Day! It’s the perfect opportunity to explore a local park, stretch your legs, and enjoy the outdoors with your pup. Rain or shine, keep them dry so a spring shower is a “walk in the park” in a Voyagers K9 Apparel raincoat. # How Do Dogs Regulate Temperature? Like all species in the animal kingdom, dogs have their own unique anatomy and adaptations that help them function in their daily lives — one being temperature regulation. Dogs have several ways in which they adapt to temperature changes. Let’s explore how dogs regulate their body temperature and how to ensure they are safe, healthy, and comfortable in all seasons. ## First things first…what’s a normal temperature for a dog? Most people are surprised to learn that dogs naturally run warmer than humans. In general, a temperature of 101.5°F is considered a [normal temperature for dogs](https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/how-to-take-dogs-temperature). As opposed to a human’s “normal” which is around 98°F. Of course, some dogs can run a little cooler or warmer so anything between 99°F and 102.5°F is still considered within a normal range for a dog. Anything outside of this range can become dangerous and require emergency veterinary treatment. ## What’s too low of a temperature for a dog? Anything below 99°F is considered [hypothermia](https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/cardiovascular/dog-hypothermia). Signs of hypothermia in dogs: - Shivering - Body surface or extremities feel cool or cold to the touch - Muscle stiffness - Lethargy/weakness/collapse - Difficulty walking - Pale gums - Dilated pupils - Disorientation - Slowed breathing ## What’s too high of a temperature for a dog? Anything above 103°F is considered [hyperthermia](https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/systemic/hyperthermia-dogs). Signs of hyperthermia in dogs: - Heavy panting - Difficulty breathing - Bright red gums - Drooling - Excessive thirst/dehydration - Lethargy/weakness/collapse - Disorientation - Vomiting and diarrhea - Increased heart rate and body temperature - Seizures ## How do dogs regulate their body temperature? Dogs have several unique features for thermoregulation. From their coats that might grow or shed to keep them warm or cool (depending on the season) to internal features like their specialized respiratory system which helps cool them down by panting. Let’s explore the different ways dogs thermoregulate. ## How dogs keep warm ### Fur…the first line of defense A dog’s first line of defense against the cold is their fur. In fact, some dogs were “made” for colder weather and thus have thick, double-layered coats. Think of breeds like Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes that were bred to withstand snowy conditions, they have some of the thickest coats in the canine kingdom. ### Body mass Both fat and muscle play a role in thermoregulation of dogs. Dogs with a lower body mass will typically feel the effects of cold temperatures quicker than those with a higher body mass. ### Heat-seeking behavior When their fur or body mass aren’t enough to keep them warm, dogs will often display heat-seeking behaviors to try and warm up. ### Shivering Dogs will shiver or shake when they are cold, which is an involuntary response generated by the body in an attempt to create warmth. ## How dogs keep cool ### Panting One of the most efficient ways that dogs help cool themselves down is by [panting](https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/evr_dg_why_do_dogs_pant). ### Hydration It’s extremely important to ensure your dog has access to water at all times, especially before, during, and after any heat exposure. ### Vasodilation Another way a dog’s body will attempt to dissipate heat is through [vasodilation](https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/do-dogs-sweat). ### Cool-seeking behavior When a dog is overheated they will often seek out a cooler area, such as moving out of the sun and into the shade. ## Keeping your dog safe from the elements ### Cold and Snow As a general guideline, anything under 32°F warrants limiting your dog’s outside time. Potentially harmful temperatures include anything under 20°F which could lead to hypothermia and frostbite. ### Rain and Wind Walking your dog in the rain and wind can irritate certain dermatological conditions or lead to pneumonia or hypothermia. ### Heat and Humidity Heat and humidity can be a very dangerous combination for dogs, leading to heatstroke. ## Finding the best all-weather gear for your dog Voyagers K9 Apparel offers high-quality, long-lasting, custom dog apparel for all weather conditions. From custom [dog raincoats](/content/collections/dog-rain-coats/index.html) and [dog winter coats](/content/collections/dog-winter-coats/index.html) to hoodies, booties, and cooling gear. ## What makes Vs K9 Apparel different from the rest? ### Made in the USA Every item from Voyagers K9 Apparel is handmade in the USA. ### Handmade Craftsmanship Every item produced is handmade, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. ### Custom Sizing Voyagers K9 Apparel ensures every dog finds the perfect fit. ### High-Quality Materials Only high-quality, durable, and sustainable materials are used in every piece of apparel. ### Easy-To-Use All items are easy to put on and take off and are machine washable for easy cleanup. ### Comfort, Style, & Functionality Each item is designed with functionality, comfort, and style in mind. ### Recycling Program Voyagers K9 Apparel offers a unique RE♻️COAT program to trade in gently used gear for discounts on new gear. ## Get ready to wander in any weather Whether your dog needs protection from heat, cold, wind, or rain, Voyagers K9 Apparel ensures you and your pup can wander in any weather!