The summer’s a great time for going out and having fun with your dog, but there are a few risks that come along with the heat. Here’s 5 tips to help keep your dog safe in summer.
Provide Adequate Access to Shade & Water
Dog’s need to drink a lot more water during the summer in order to keep cool. Make your dog access to fresh, clean water at all times. When you go out for a walk with your dog bring some water along for them, and if you’re going out for an extended period of time keep it cool by freezing it.
When your dog is outside be sure they have access to shade at all times, and bring them inside on really hot days.
Although doghouses provide shade they’re not designed to stay cool — they’re not insulated like our homes, and they end up trapping hot air inside. On hot days be sure to keep your dog indoors to help them keep cool.
Protect Your Dog’s Paws From The Heat
Walking on hot asphalt, gravel and pavement during the hot summer months can burn your dog’s paw pads. Before heading out with your dog, place your hand onto the street; if it’s too hot for you to hold your hand there for 10 seconds it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
To help protect your dog’s paws avoid walking your dog on pavement during the hottest hours of the day. Take your dog for their daily walk in the evening or morning when it’s not as hot or humid, or opt to walk your dog in grassy or wooded areas.
Never Leave Your Dog Alone in a Hot Car
Don’t leave your dog unattended in a parked car. Dog’s can’t regulate their temperature as efficiently as we do in the heat, and when they’re in a car they end up recycling all that hot air through panting.
When it’s hot outside it only takes a few minutes for the temperature inside of a parked car to get to 120 degrees. The temperature will continue to rise steadily each minute, and cracking the windows has minimal effect when it comes to cooling it down.
Not only is leaving your dog alone in a car dangerous for their health, it’s illegal in many states. And in many of those states citizens are granted immunity when it comes to any damages incurred in the process of freeing a dog from a car.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise on Hot Days
Dog’s can suffer from heatstroke like us, and in serious cases it’s lethal. You can lessen that risk by avoiding strenuous exercise with your dog during the hottest parts of the day. Take your dog for their walk during the evening or morning hours, when it’s cooler outside and less humid.
When it’s hot outside keep your exercise sessions shorter. Dog’s can’t regulate their temperature as well as us, so they’re at a greater risk for suffering from heatstroke. Keep an eye on your dog and watch out for any signs of heatstroke including:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
Flat-faced breeds, such as Bulldogs & Pugs, are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke because their panting is less effective when it comes to cooling down. If you suspect your dog may be suffering from heatstroke take them to the vet immediately.
Protect Your Dog From Summer Pests
Mosquitoes, fleas and ticks are all in peak season during the summer, and they each pose different health risks to our pets. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors you’ll want to check them for fleas & ticks regularly. The sooner you catch and remove a tick from your dog the less likely they are to have transmitted any tick-borne illnesses.
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, especially near wooded areas, you’ll want to do a thorough check for ticks when they come back in. Never use insect repellents made for humans on your dog, they’re toxic to pets and can cause serious neurological damage. Talk to your vet to find out which preventatives are best for your dog.
Use Indoor Activities On Super Hot Days
On days when it’s too hot to exercise outdoors there are plenty of ways to keep your dog busy indoors such as a game of tug, hide and seek, or find the treats. Brain games are another great choice — all that mental stimulation can help tire out your dog, even if you stay inside.
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