If you have a dog and enjoy being outside, summer is the perfect time to take your dog on adventures, create new friendships and bond with your pet. But taking a dog out in the summer heat can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. If not correctly cared for, the heat can cause dehydration, heat stroke, sunburn, and even death. Here are some tips on how to help keep your dog safe and cool during hot weather:
• Give your dog plenty of clean water. Lightly, cool and fresh water within reach at all times.
• Never leave a dog or puppy in a hot car. It’s not enough to crack a window—the heat inside can rise to deadly temperatures in minutes.
• Keep your dog comfortable indoors with fans or air conditioning.
• Take your dog out early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler outside.
• Check the ground for hot spots before letting your dog walk on it; asphalt and other surfaces can burn your pet’s paws.
• Take breaks from exercise on hot days to don’t overdo it.
• Give your dog plenty of shade. Whether it’s a natural spot beneath a tree or an artificial one under a canopy, ensure that your dog always has access to an excellent place to rest.
• Groom your dog, not shave them. Shaving their fur exposes them to sun exposure which could lead to sunburn—This is possibly one of the most misunderstood summer dog care tips; dog owners shave their dogs to help them keep cool.
• Protect them against pests. With summer comes pesky parasites (i.e., ticks, mosquitoes, fleas). Check with your vet what’s the best protection for your dog. There are plenty of options, from oral medications to shampoo or collars.
• Know signs of heat exhaustion. Just like us humans, dogs feel and experience heat exhaustion as well. Look out for the first stage signs of dog heat exhaustion; heavy panting, bright red gums, thick drool, and weakness. Provide shade, cool air (fan), and plenty of water. Most importantly, please don’t force them into an airconditioned room or provide cold water; you don’t want to shock them. Take it slow and adjust gradually.
As long as you plan and be wary of your dog’s needs, there’s no reason you and your dog shouldn’t enjoy the summer. After all, having a furry friend around can certainly make the summer more enjoyable. So whether you’re planning a long trip or just headed out for the day, you’ll want to keep these tips in mind to ensure that your canine companion will enjoy his summer months!
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