Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it’s important to remember that our furry friends can’t handle the heat as well as we can. Here are some essential precautions to keep your dog cool and safe during the hot summer months:
Heat Protection
- Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a car can soar to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes.
- Provide plenty of fresh, cool water. Keep a water bowl out for your dog at all times, and refill it frequently. Consider an insulated bowl to keep the water cooler for longer.
- Offer shady spots to relax. Make sure your dog has access to a cool, shaded area outdoors, whether it’s a covered porch, a shady tree, or a kiddie pool filled with water. Dog houses are not ideal in summer as they trap heat.
- Keep your dog cool indoors. During extreme heat, air conditioning is your best friend. If you don’t have air conditioning, consider using fans and keeping your blinds closed during the day.
- Adjust Walk schedule. Avoid walks during the hottest part of the day. Early mornings and evenings are much safer for walks and playtime.
- Hydrating treats are a great option. Frozen fruits and vegetables like watermelon or cucumber can be a fun and hydrating way to cool down your pup.
Sun Safety
- Sunscreen is for dogs too! Look for sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs and apply it to areas with short fur or exposed skin, like the ears, nose, and around the eyes.
- Limit sun exposure for light-colored dogs. Dogs with white fur or pink skin are more susceptible to sunburn. Avoid long stretches of time in direct sunlight.
Paw Pad Protection
- Test the Surface: Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.
- Walk During Cooler Hours: Early morning or late evening walks are ideal.
- Use Protective Booties: These can help shield your pet’s paws from the heat.
Watch for Signs of Overheating
Pets can suffer from heat exhaustion and heatstroke just like humans. Signs to watch for include:
- Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
- Drooling
- Weakness or lethargy
- High body temperature
- Vomiting or diarrhea
If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet to a cooler area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Insect Prevention
- Parasite prevention is key. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos are more prevalent in warm weather. Make sure your dog is on a year-round preventative regimen.
- Insect Repellent: Just like humans, dogs will benefit from insect repellent. Here’s a link to the one we’ve found that works the best for us. No Natz
Water Safety
- Water Conditions: Check the current water conditions if you plan to let your dog swim in the ocean, lake or a river. Rip currents, undertows, or fast moving currents can be extremely dangerous for canines and humans alike. You should also make sure the water temperature is not too cold. A general rule of thumb is that if you are cold in the water, it is probably too cold for your pet.
- Take Precautions: Your dog should be able to easily get out of water on their own. Install stairs they can climb, a ramp that is made for pets, or a fence around the pool. Make sure that the fence is tall enough to keep them out and keep the gate secure.
- Life Jackets: Dog life jackets not only keep your dog afloat, but can also help you spot them in the water. Dog life vests typically have handles, making it easier to pull them out if necessary. Consider purchasing one for your pet, especially if you are taking them out on a boat.
- Bring Drinking Water: Make sure you have fresh drinking water for your dog to drink. Letting them lap up lake, river, pool, or ocean water can make them sick since it can contain bacteria, algae, parasites, chemicals, or salt.
- Take Breaks: Swimming can be very tiring for dogs. Stay close to your pet and make sure they take breaks in the shade.
- Wash Up: Rinse off your dog or give them a bath after swim sessions. Salt or pool chemicals can irritate your dog’s skin. Additionally, if your dog licks their fur, the salt or pool chemicals could make them sick.
Following these simple precautions, you can help your dog stay cool, safe, and have a fun-filled summer!
