Summer offers lots of great opportunities to head out with your dog for some fun. But make sure to keep your four-legged companion safe with these summer safety tips!
Don’t leave your dog in your car.
Not even for a moment. Not even if the windows are down. Cars heat up rapidly and can reach temperatures much greater than the temperature outside. Too many pets (and children) have lost their lives due to being trapped in a hot car. Know where your dog is at all times…and don’t leave them in the vehicle, even for a moment.
Consider the temperature of the pavement.
Ever try to walk across pavement in this summer with bare feet? Chances are it wasn’t very comfortable! Asphalt and concrete absorb heat throughout the day and can climb to dangerous temperatures which can cause burns on a dog’s paw pads. If you can’t hold your hand against the pavement for an extended period, it’s too hot for your dog. Avoid this problem by heading out early in the day before it has a chance to heat up or sticking to grass or dirt surfaces which don’t concentrate as much heat. If you must spend time on hot asphalt or concrete, use boots to make sure your canine companion’s feet are protected from the heat (you’ll need to acclimate your dog to wearing these beforehand).
Have water available.
Dogs need frequent access to clean drinking water during the summer. If you’re at home, make sure that there’s water available full time. If you’re headed out somewhere…to the dog park, hiking, an event…make sure to take plenty of water with you. Don’t count on there being water there when you arrive. (For tips on other things you should pack in your dog’s day pack, check out this blog post.)
Also, it’s important to make sure that your dog is comfortable with how you’ll offer water on the road. Don’t just use your portable water source when you’re out and about…get your dog used to drinking out of it at home first!
(Some) Dogs need sunscreen too.
Thinly haired or light skinned dogs need sun protection too! Ask your veterinarian for recommendations or look for dog safe sunscreens at your pet supply store.
Practice water safety.
Summer is blue green algae time which can be deadly for dogs…and not all dogs are strong swimmers. Practice water safety any time you’re around a body of water (lake, ocean, swimming pool, etc). Check out this blog post for more information about water safety for dogs.
Consider the temperature when deciding on an activity.
While dogs do have some sweat glands in the pads of their feet, they cool themselves primarily through panting. Strenuous activity in already hot weather creates lots of extra heat…and sustained activity or high humidity levels can hinder a dog’s ability to regulate their own body temperature.
Know the signs of heatstroke.
Just like in people, heatstroke can be deadly in dogs. Some of the first signs of heatstroke include an increased respiratory rate, lethargy, weakness, and dry or dull colored mucus membranes (gums). Dogs with flat faces (such as Bulldogs and Pugs) are at an increased risk of heatstroke, but any dog is susceptible. If your dog is showing signs of heatstroke, offer cool (not cold) water to drink, apply cool (not cold) water or rubbing alcohol to the dog’s thin haired regions (armpits, groin, belly, paw pads), place the dog in front of a fan blowing cool (not cold) air, and head to the nearest veterinarian immediately. Heatstroke is an emergency!!! Failure to seek immediate and appropriate medical treatment can lead to death due to organ failure.
