Summer is an exciting time for both dogs and humans, but we must not forget that the rising temperatures can be hazardous for dogs. Whether it is through heatstroke, dehydration, hot pavement or bugs, every summer comes with its own risks. These necessities complete summer safety for dogs and ensure that your dog does not get in trouble during the entire season.
Scroll down for crucial information regarding keeping your dog healthy, cool, and safe this summer.
Ensuring the Dog is Hydrated
- Get a portable water bowl for when you walk the dog.
- Add ice cubes to the water in the dog’s bowl.
- Give some dog-friendly fruit, such as watermelon to further help hydration.
- Other signs of dehydration are sluggishness, stick gums, and sunken eyes. A dog’s urine being dark yellow is a sure sign of dehydration.
Avoid Hot Pavement
- Restrict walks before 10 am or after 6 pm.
- Avoid hot black pavement during walks by utilizing boots, if the dog is willing to wear them.
- Perform the 7 second test. If the temperature of the pavement can be tolerated by humans, then yes it is suitable for dogs too.
Avoid Leaving Your Dog Alone in a Car
For a dog, a car’s interior can become unbearably hot. A dog left in a car for just ten minutes on a hot day can suffer organ failure. If your dog cannot come with you, best to leave them at home to avoid overheating.
Dogs Are At Risk of Suffering from Heatstroke
Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and other brachycephalic breeds are highly susceptible to heatstroke related issues. Heavy panting, drooling, and bluish or pale gums are indicators of heatstroke along with vomiting and eventually collapse. It is recommended in the case of any symptoms appearing to move them to shade immediately and call your vet straight on.
Take Precautions with Fleas, Ticks and Mosquitos
Stagnant pools of water should be avoided along with fleas and ticks as they are huge mosquito magnets. Fleas and ticks should be removed using veterinary approved methods. Make sure to ask your vet what they suggest for effective, non-natural, remedies as well.
Be Cautious of Water
Engaging with water poses a risk even to dogs who are perceived as strong swimmers. It is essential to provide dog life jackets to them while boating or swimming deep as dogs can panic or get tired in the waves. Also, don’t forget to wash off pool or saltwater chemicals after swimming.
Extra Guidance
- Use sunscreen on your short-haired or light-coated dogs to protect them from getting sunburned. Make sure that the sunscreen you are using is pet-safe and apply it to their nose, ears and belly.
- Adjust your timetable and plans based on what your pooch is comfortable with as they don’t share the same limits as you do.
Recall that summer days spent with your dog need to be full of glee: jumping in the lake, lounging idly in the backyard, and going on roadtrip vacations. Follow a simple guide combining some common sense with outdoor prep, and you can keep your dog’s paws and tails happy all throughout summer, evading the emergency vet.
Final Thoughts
The increasing heat should shift you to revs up the attention you give to your dog’s wellbeing throughout the summer season. These suggestions on keeping dogs safe in the summer heat – like proper hydration, avoiding hot paved surfaces, protection from sunstroke, and ensuring safety around water – are a must for every dog owner.
Preventing triggered heat dangers, overflowed vet appointments during summer, and ensuring a dog’s full summertime fun is possible by adapting to the recommendations. Bear in mind your dogs may not understand the risks posed, but loyal pet owners are well aware.
Hit the yard, beach and wooded trails -but don’t forget that keeping your dog cool and hydrated is required so you both relish every moment the season has to offer. Don’t forget to grab the leash and water, because this season sets the perfect stage of wags and joy-filled memories.
