Summer is a wonderful time of year where we all get to enjoy the warm weather outside, but as much as we enjoy being out and about, we must remember that our furry friends are just as susceptible to the summer heat as we are. Dogs can easily suffer from heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even heatstroke during the hot summer months, but with a little planning and preparation, we can keep our four-legged friends happy and cool. In this blog post, we will take a look at five easy ways to help keep your dog safe and comfortable during the summer heat.
Never leave your dog in a parked car.
This might seem obvious, but leaving your dog inside a parked car during the summer heat can be fatal. Even with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels very quickly. If you must leave your dog in the car, even for just a few minutes, make sure to bring plenty of water and park in a shaded spot. Better yet, leave your dog at home where it is cool and comfortable.
Provide plenty of water and shade.
Just like humans, dogs need access to plenty of water and shade during the hot summer months. Make sure to provide your dog with fresh water at all times, both indoors and outdoors. If your dog spends time outside, provide a shaded area where they can rest and cool off. You can also fill up a kiddie pool and allow your dog to splash around and cool down.
Avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day.
Avoid exercising your dog during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10am and 5pm. This is especially important for dogs that are older, overweight, or have health issues. Instead, take your dog for a walk early in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. If you do exercise during the hottest part of the day, make sure to bring plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade.
Be mindful of hot surfaces.
Hot pavement, concrete, and sand can get incredibly hot during the summer and can burn your dog’s paws. This can be especially dangerous during long walks and hikes. To prevent this, try to walk your dog during cooler times of the day or stick to grassy areas. You can also purchase booties for your dog to protect their paws.
Keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion.
Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion in dogs, such as excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. If you notice these signs, bring your dog to a cool, shaded area and offer water. You can also use a wet towel to cool them down. If the symptoms persist, take your dog to the vet immediately.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your dog safe and comfortable during the summer heat. Remember to never leave your dog in a parked car, provide plenty of shade and water, avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, be mindful of hot surfaces, and keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion. With a little planning and preparation, both you and your furry friend can enjoy the summer together.
