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Keeping your dog safe in the summer heat is essential to ensure their well-being. Here are some tips to help you protect your furry friend during hot weather:
10 Tips For Dog Summer Safety
Tip #1: Provide Ample Shade
Ensure that your dog has access to shady areas throughout the day. This could be under a tree, a covered porch, or a doghouse with proper ventilation.
This is a great doghouse that is very durable and will give your dog the shade they need during the hot summer heat.
Tip #2: Fresh Water
Fresh water: Always provide your dog with a sufficient amount of clean, cool water. Check the water bowl regularly to ensure it’s filled and consider using a larger bowl or multiple bowls to prevent dehydration.
For an easy way to ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water, consider this outdoor dog water fountain that attaches to your outdoor water spigot.
Tip #3: Avoid Hot Surfaces
Pavement, asphalt, and sand can get extremely hot during the summer, leading to burns on your dog’s paw pads. Walk your dog on grassy areas or use booties to protect their paws from getting burned.
Try these summertime dog booties. These booties ensure your pet’s pads are never burned on hot asphalt.
Tip #4: Limit Your Dog’s Exercise During Peak Summer Heat
Avoid strenuous activities and exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for early morning or late evening walks when temperatures are cooler. Keep an eye on your dog for signs of exhaustion or overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or reluctance to move.
If your dog is out in the heat, keep him cool with a reusable cooling collar. Just soak it in water, refrigerate or freeze it and put it on your dog’s neck to cool them on hot summer days.
Tip #5: Swimming Dogs Need Jackets
If you have a dog that loves water sports, ensure they stay safe with a life jacket. Water dogs that join you on your boat or kayaking can get far from shore and then easily get tired, or dehydrated, and may not be able to get back to safety.
Lifejackets are mandatory for people on boats, and your dog should be no different. Protect your pets while they are out in the water with a life jacket specifically designed for them.
Tip #6: Watch For Overheating
Watch for signs of overheating: Dogs can quickly overheat, leading to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition. Watch for symptoms such as excessive panting, rapid breathing, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cooler area, offer water, and contact a veterinarian immediately.
A great way to be prepared for any emergency while you are out with your dog this summer is carrying with you a pet first-aid kit.
Tip #7: Use Cooling Aids
Help your dog stay cool by providing them with cooling aids like a damp towel for them to lie on or a cooling mat. You can also use a kiddie pool or a sprinkler to allow them to cool off and have some fun.
Try this cooling mat by FurHaven to help keep your dog cool during the summer heat.
Tip #8: Grooming Your Dog in Summer
Regular grooming, including brushing, can help remove excess fur and improve airflow to your dog’s skin, aiding in temperature regulation. However, be cautious not to shave your dog’s coat too short, as their fur also provides protection from the sun’s rays.
Consider this at-home professional dog grooming system. Complete with 5 different tools including a deshedding tool. Keep your pet’s cool this summer.
Tip #9: Consider Indoor Activities
On extremely hot days, consider engaging your dog in indoor activities that provide mental stimulation and exercise, such as puzzle toys or obedience training. Check out our page for Best Interactive Dog Toys.
A Doggie Treadmill is another way to keep your pet exercised while staying indoors when the summer heat is too much.
Tip #10: Sunscreen
Did you know dogs can get sunburnt too? Dogs with short or thin coats as well as dogs with light or pink skin can feel the effects of too much sun. When you are putting on that sunscreen don’t forget to put your dog’s on too.
Protect and moisturizer your pet’s skin and keep it free from sunburn and damage. Great for skin, coat, nose, and ears.
Conclusion:
Remember, your dog’s safety is paramount. If you have concerns about your dog’s well-being or suspect heat-related problems, consult your veterinarian for guidance. And PLEASE, never leave your dog in a parked car in the summer.
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