10 Tips to keep your Dogs safe this Summer
Summer is Coming: Essential Precautions for Pet Parents to Keep Their Dogs Safe and Happy
As temperatures rise and the days get longer, summer brings a welcome change of season for most of us. But while we humans can adapt with sunscreen, cool drinks, and air-conditioning, our canine companions rely entirely on us to help them cope with the heat. Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke and dehydration, and their comfort and safety during summer months require special attention. In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything a responsible pet parent needs to know to keep their furry friend healthy, cool, and happy this summer.
1. Hydration is Non-Negotiable
Just like humans, dogs need more water during the hotter months. Dehydration can occur quickly in the summer heat, especially if your dog is active or has a thick coat.
- Fresh Water Always: Ensure your dog has access to clean, cool water at all times. Change the water frequently and consider placing multiple water bowls around the house and in the garden.
- Travel Water Bottles: When taking your dog for a walk or a drive, carry a portable water bottle with an attached bowl or a collapsible travel bowl.
- Watch for Dehydration Signs: Symptoms include dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes, and excessive panting. If you suspect dehydration, offer water immediately and contact your vet.
2. Time Your Walks Smartly
Asphalt and concrete surfaces heat up quickly and can burn your dog’s paw pads. Avoid mid-day walks when the sun is at its peak.
- Best Times to Walk: Early mornings or late evenings are ideal. These cooler hours help prevent heat exhaustion and protect sensitive paws.
- Test the Pavement: A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5-10 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
- Opt for Grass: Choose grassy or shaded trails whenever possible.
3. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
This cannot be stressed enough. Even with the windows slightly open, a parked car can become a death trap within minutes.
- Rapid Heat Build-Up: On a 30°C (86°F) day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to over 50°C (122°F) in just a few minutes.
- Heatstroke Danger: Dogs can suffer irreversible organ damage or die from heatstroke in a short time.
- Always Take Them With You: If you can’t take your dog inside with you, it’s safer to leave them at home.
4. Provide a Cool Resting Area
Your dog needs a place to cool down, especially after outdoor play or a walk.
- Shade and Ventilation: Ensure that your dog has a shaded, well-ventilated area to rest. This could be indoors with a fan or air-conditioning or outdoors under a tree or canopy.
- Cooling Mats and Towels: Consider investing in a cooling mat or damp towel for your dog to lie on.
- Frozen Treats: Homemade frozen treats made from dog-safe ingredients can also help keep them cool and happy.
5. Ticks, Fleas, and Parasites: Be Vigilant
Warm weather is ideal for ticks, fleas, and other parasites to thrive.
- Regular Checks: After outdoor time, especially in grassy or wooded areas, check your dog’s fur, ears, and paws for ticks.
- Preventive Treatments: Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventives regularly.
- Keep Your Yard Clean: Trim the grass and eliminate standing water to minimize mosquito breeding grounds.
6. Recognize and Respond to Heatstroke
Heatstroke can be life-threatening. Dogs cannot sweat like humans; they rely mostly on panting to cool down.
Symptoms of Heatstroke:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Red or pale gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or collapse
What to Do:
- Move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water.
- Wet their body with cool water, especially the paws, belly, and neck.
- Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
7. Don’t Shave That Coat!
Many pet parents think shaving a dog will help them stay cool. But for double-coated breeds, this can do more harm than good.
- Natural Insulation: Double coats provide insulation against heat and sunburn. Shaving them can interfere with this natural protection.
- Trimming is Okay: Light trimming and regular brushing to remove undercoat shedding is better than a full shave.
- Check with Your Vet: Always consult a vet before making major grooming decisions.
8. Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen
Dogs with light-colored or thin coats can get sunburned, especially on the nose, ears, and belly.
- Choose the Right Sunscreen: Use only pet-safe sunscreen. Human sunscreen often contains zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs.
- Apply to Vulnerable Areas: Focus on areas with less fur coverage.
9. Limit Intense Physical Activity
While exercise is important, overexertion in hot weather can be dangerous.
- Shorter Play Sessions: Keep fetch or tug games brief and take frequent breaks.
- Watch Their Behavior: If your dog slows down, pants excessively, or seems disinterested, it’s time to stop and rest.
10. Refresh Their Diet with Summer-Friendly Options
Some pet parents find that lightening up their dog’s diet in summer helps with digestion and energy levels.
- Cool Treats: Frozen fruits like watermelon (seedless), blueberries, and plain ice cubes are great for hydration.
- Consult Your Vet: Before making dietary changes, check with your vet for recommendations based on your dog’s age, breed, and health needs.
Final Thoughts
Summer is a time for fun, sunshine, and bonding with your furry companion. But it also comes with specific challenges that require proactive care and vigilance. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your dog not only survives but thrives during the warmer months. After all, our pets rely on us to make the best choices for their health and happiness.
So grab your pup, a bottle of water, and head out for some summer-safe fun—just remember to keep it cool!
