11 Summer Tips for Dogs Or - How to Keep Your Dog Cool During Summer
·4 min read
Being a dog owner during summer is a blast! There’s no better time to hike, swim and play with your pooch outside. But there are unique dangers to summer as well. From dehydration, heatstroke and paw pad burns, it’s vital to brush up on summer safety tips to keep your canine cool during warm summer months.
Make sure your dog is hydrated.
Dog’s should have unlimited access to fresh, clean water both inside and outside. Make sure water that’s kept outside is also kept out of the sun. Carry water with you when running, hiking or out and about.. The Gulpy Pet Water Dispenser is perfect for hiking because it’s a leak proof bottle and bowl all in one!
Never leave your dog in a parked car.
Dogs can’t sit in a hot car, not even for a minute. The temperature in a car rises quickly, even with the windows down, which can result in heatstroke and even death. It’s always best to leave your dog at home on warm days.
Pay attention to his paws.
Hot surfaces such as pavement, docks, and even the back of trucks can burn your dog's paw pads. Walk your dog during cool times of day like early morning or late evening. Look for surfaces such as grass or dirt or use Ultra Paws Cool Dog Boots to deflect hot surface temperatures away from your dog's paw.
Watch for signs of heatstroke and dehydration.
Do you know the signs of heatstroke and dehydration?
Excessive panting
Bright red tongue and gums
Change in demeanor
Thick saliva
Pale gums
Increased heart rate
Heatstroke can cause permanent damage to your dog, so call your vet immediately if you see these signs.
Be aware of what your dog is telling you.
Dogs can’t use their words, so it’s our job to pay attention to their actions. If your dog stops walking and won’t budge, don’t push him to keep going. It means he’s had enough. If your dog keeps walking over to shady spots it could mean he is too hot or is feet are burning from the heat on the ground. It’s our responsibility as pet owners to listen to our dogs to keep them safe and healthy.
Cool your dog down with a cooling mat.
Ever notice your dog lying on the bathroom floor? Can’t blame them, it’s cool down there. Dogs cool from their bellies, paws and chest, so it’s nice for them to have a cool surface to relax on when it’s hot. The Cool Pup Cooling Mat is designed to keep your dog cool anywhere. You can put it on your deck, on his bed and even take it with you on vacation.
Help your dog cool down faster when he’s panting.
Dogs can’t sweat like we humans do, so they pant to circulate air through their body, which cools them down. Your dog will cool down faster if he’s taking in cool air. You can help that process by moving him to a shady area or hopping into an air conditioned car.
It provides protection from the sun and cooling through evaporation, which is perfect for the heat of summer. (Ruffwear Swamp Cooler)
Go for a swim.
One of the best activities you can do with your dog during summer is go for a swim. It’s great exercise, helps keep her temperature down and a great bonding activity for the both of you. You can always buy a kiddie pool too. If you do plan on heading out to take a dip, don’t forget to rinse your dog off after play time. Lakes, rivers, canals and other bodies of water can harbor bacteria, parasites, algae blooms and other skin irritants that can lead to an overly itchy dog. Make an appointment online to use our dog wash. You will save $5 and a sore back! (Check out the Bend Pet Express Dog Wash)
Let 'em dig
If you see your dog digging during summer chances are he’s looking for a cooler surface area. Do you have an area in your yard where your dog can dig? If not, consider making one. Summer can be a ton of fun as long as we keep our dogs cool and healthy. Remember, if you’re not comfortable outside, then your dog won’t be either. Keep your dog cool, hydrated and safe by following these tips.
