Summertime with your pup!
Summer is here and it is not going anywhere! Summer is a time for celebration with family and friends, where we get the chance to go out and do the things we love with the people and pets we love. Picnics, swimming, hikes, and vacations are only a few of the activities our dogs want to enjoy alongside us. But sometimes our furry little friends will need more attention and care during this active time so here are some tips on making that easier for everyone!
Summer Safety Tips
Staying cool
The sun is working overtime and making it difficult for our animal friends to stay cool. Dogs keep themselves cool mostly through panting but while the air itself is so hot it can increase their chances of dehydration or heat stroke. Dogs will be much thirstier during this time of year and will enjoy fresh, cold water more than ever! Giving them a kiddie pool to play in will help them keep themselves cool and give them something active to do that won’t overheat them.
Never keep your pet locked or leashed in an area where they do not have access to shade and plenty of water and remember that a hot car can turn deadly even when it may not seem that warm to you (you are not the one whose body is covered in fur). For example, on a 78 degree day temperatures in a car can reach 90 degrees in the shade and top 160 degrees in the sun, within a matter of minutes! It may be better to keep your furry friend at home on these hot days, they will miss you but they’ll be happier and healthier for it.
Don’t forget about their paws! You would not want to walk barefoot on the hot asphalt and they do not want to either! Check the ground yourself before attempting any walks or runs, it may be better to stick to the early morning or evening where it will not be as hot and you can both enjoy the exercise together!
Added bonus freeze or chill their preferred treat and you will find yourself with one happy pup!
Outside is the place to be… safe!
The summertime gives us a change to explore outside and enjoy some much needed time in nature, but don’t forget to take the proper safety precautions that will help keep the fun times coming!
Make sure your puppy pal is up to date on all of their needed vaccinations and are protected from parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. These little pests often put your dog at risk for heartworm, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and a host of other possible dangerous diseases too. Some of which can be transferred to people as well! Remember to always check for ticks after any outdoor activities, for both you and your pet’s continued safety!
Dogs can get sunburned too! Overexposure to the sun, especially with short haired or light colored dogs, can cause painful and uncomfortable burns that put your dog at risk for skin cancer. Sunscreen is important for any amount of outdoor activity but check with your local veterinarian first about which sunscreen is best for your pup (don’t assume that the sunscreen for you will be appropriate for them).
Fireworks are another added enjoyment of the summertime that can leave your dog with high levels of anxiety and nervousness that you may not be used to seeing in your dog. Make sure to keep your pet safe and secure at all times. If you are in a new or unknown environment keeping your dog on a leash will protect against them running off and getting lost. Some dogs benefit from calming medications or supplements, or just your extra love and attention! Always ask your vet before giving anything new to your dog and don’t leave your preparations for July 3rd, you never know when people are going to want to celebrate and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to our loved ones.
Our furry pals want to enjoy the summer season as much as we do and they need you to help keep them healthy and happy! Show them the love and attention they show you and everyone will get to celebrate the summer together!
Author, Heather Carter
Kamie Roth
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