5 Tips to Take Care of Your Dog in Hot Summer Season
Summer season is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend. It’s the perfect time to go to swim and hit the beach, have a backyard barbecue or simply to enjoy hanging out in the park. But on some days, the sun could get scorching and while we can feel refreshed with just an ice cold drink, it is important to think about your furry friend’s situation, too.
Here are 5 quick safety tips for dogs during the summer season,
Provide water and shade
Did you know that dogs aren’t as good as regulating heat as us? That’s why on a really hot day, it’s ideal to just let them stay indoors. But if you must absolutely go out and will be staying out in the heat for long periods of time, be sure to provide a cool, comfortable spot for your pet to rest on. Don’t forget to give plenty of water!
Purchase a cheap plastic pool
Does the summer heat make you want to take a dip in the pool? It’s most likely the same for your dog! Buy a cheap plastic kid’s pool (dog’s nails might tear inflatable ones) for your pet to cool off in. If a pool isn’t available, a sprinkler or a hose might provide fun and refreshment, too!
Walk your dog during cooler hours of the day
If you have a daily schedule to walk your dog, do so early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sidewalks aren’t that hot. Hot sand or pavement will burn your furry friend’s paws. If you must walk during the day, consider making him wear protective boots or choosing to walk on grassy or wooded areas.
Only allow your dog to drink fresh water
When you’re going on a swimming trip with your pet, never allow him to drink from lakes, oceans or even pools as this can be harmful to him. Canines drinking saltwater can lead to dehydration and vomiting and can even be fatal if too much is ingested.
Watch out for signs of heat stroke
It is important to know if your pet is having a heat stroke and when to bring him to the vet. Early signs of heat stroke in canines include balance problems, excessive drooling, heavy panting and bright red gums. Advanced signs of heat stroke are labored breathing, lethargy, vomiting and white gums.
