As the temperature soars in the summer, you want to ensure your dog stays safe and healthy. Because you can’t take your dog on walks as often when it’s hot outside, there are some other things you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy during the summer months.
These tips will help you keep your pet safe during the summer to enjoy these warm summer days together.
1) Keeping Your Dog Cool and Hydrated
When it’s hot, ensure your dog has water access and keep an eye on their energy levels. It might be time for a break if they seem lethargic or sluggish. A good way to cool down is by jumping in a pool or lake.
Keeping your dog cool will make them feel better and prevent heat stroke, which can cause irreversible organ damage. It’s important to take note of signs of heat stroke like heavy panting, trouble breathing, drooling excessively, and possible vomiting.
Most dogs don’t have sweat glands, so they cannot regulate their body temperature through perspiration as humans do. Dogs pant when it gets too hot, helping themselves evaporate moisture from the tongue and mouth onto their bodies for cooling purposes.
2) Exercise in Moderation
If you take your dog on a walk, keep them on a leash and avoid hot asphalt or concrete. Exercise is essential for any dog’s health, but too much exercise in high temperatures can be dangerous.
A good rule of thumb is to limit your dog’s walks during the day and early evening. Limit their time outside as well. Use a kiddie pool in your backyard, which is great for cooling off you and your pup!
Plus, if you take your dog on a walk, avoid walking on hot pavement and sidewalks as they’re too hard on paws. You might also want to consider using sunscreen before taking your dog out in the sun.
3) Use Protective Clothing for Hot Weather
Protective clothing for hot weather can also help keep your dog safe during the summer. Sunscreen and a hat with a wide brim are great options. Some breeds may require more protection, so ensure you know what’s best for your pup.
Sunglasses that offer UV protection and prevent eye damage are also helpful for protecting your pup’s eyes from harsh sunlight. Additionally, some dogs may not be able to tolerate heat as humans do.
For example, pugs cannot cool themselves off by sweating because they have no sweat glands. Consider these factors when deciding whether or not to take your dog outside in extreme heat. Finally, limit how much time you spend outside in the heat.
4) Limit Time Outside in the Sun
Limiting time outside in the sun is important because dogs can’t cool themselves as well as humans. The American Kennel Club recommends no more than 10 minutes a day during peak hours of 11 am-3 pm.
If your dog is already prone to overheating, limit them even more. A shady spot should be sought when possible; if not, dog cooling mats can help cool your pup down. You may also consider investing in your pet’s outdoor water bowl. These bowls have extra insulation that helps keep the water from getting warm.
If you plan on leaving your dog unattended in the car, leave fresh air vents open, and don’t leave your pet alone for longer than 20 minutes.
5) Check Temperature Before Taking Your Pet Outside
Hot pavement is one hazard pet parents often overlook. The pavement can get incredibly hot during summer, making it painful for your pup to walk on. Put your hand on the pavement for a quick temperature test. If it’s too hot to keep your hand on, it’s too hot for your pup to walk on. To avoid this, either wait until evening when temperatures are cooler or place wet towels or sheets on the ground before letting your dog out.
Additionally, while we typically think of water as a soothing element that keeps us cool in the summer heat, ponds and lakes can be more dangerous than swimming pools because they have no barriers. Be sure to supervise pets around these bodies of water.
6) Supervise Children With Dogs When Playing Outdoors
When children play outdoors with a dog, it is best to supervise them. Children should be told not to approach or pet a dog without asking first. Dogs can be frightened by sudden movements, so children should make sure they are calm and gentle when interacting with them.
It is also important for parents and guardians to teach their children that dogs may bite if they feel threatened. All of these rules apply at home or in a walk-in public place. For example, if your child wants to touch a dog, they need to ask the owner’s permission before doing so. If there’s no owner around, ask someone who knows the dog well enough to speak for him.
7) Avoid Leaving Pets Unattended in Cars
As the weather gets warmer, it’s tempting to want to bring your furry friend everywhere with you. But before you do, ensure that your destination is pet-friendly and that your dog will be comfortable.
Above all, never leave your pet unattended in a car or confined space, even for just a few minutes. The heat can build up quickly and become unbearable, leading to health problems or even death.
If you’re worried about leaving your pup alone at home during the day, try setting up an air conditioner next to his favorite spot so he can still enjoy the summer while keeping cool. For example, when we go on vacation and know our pets will be without us for more than 8 hours, we arrange for them to stay with nearby family members.
Also, ensure their safety by asking those who take care of them not to let them outside or feed them human food, and ask that they call us if they notice any changes in their behavior.
8) Medicate for Nausea if Traveling by Car
If you’re traveling by car with your dog this summer, you can do a few things to make the trip more comfortable for both of you. First, pack any medications your dog may need, including something for nausea in case they get car sick.
You’ll also want to bring along plenty of water and often stop for bathroom breaks. Finally, ensure your dog wears a collar with ID tags in case they get lost during the trip.
Conclusion
If you’ve considered these tips, then your dog should be safe for this summer. Remember that dogs can get very hot and dehydrated in warm weather. Give them plenty of fresh water and shade. The heat is no joke, and they will not always know when they need to get out of the sun.
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