Five Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe This Summer

Harold Reaves April 6, 2022 in Pet Care, WHS Stories - 3 Minutes

You love traveling with your pet, but what if the place you’re going doesn’t allow pets? What are you going to do? Leave your dog in the car? That’s fine on cool days, but now when it’s summer. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can get to above 100 degrees (even on those spring and fall days when it isn’t really that hot outside), and a closed car can heat up in just a few minutes.

In addition, keep in mind that your dog is protected from the heat of the day by his fur coat, so never put a muzzle on him when it’s particularly hot outside. Leave your dog at home when it’s too hot outside (indoors or in the shade, always with water). Leave someone in the car with them if you need to make a quick stop.

Summer Dog Safety Tips

Summer is the perfect season to take your pet for a walk in the park. You can go to the beach, have a backyard BBQ or just relax in the park at this time of year. It may be tempting to cool yourself with an ice-cold drink when the sun is beating down, but remember that your furry friend may be suffering in the same way. Summer is a dangerous time for dogs, so here are five quick safety tips:

1. Give water and a shady place to rest.

We’ve all heard that dogs aren’t as good at regulating their body temperature as humans. So on a particularly hot day, it’s better to simply allow them to stay indoors. Make sure to give your pet a cool, comfortable place to relax if you must be out in the heat for long durations. Water is essential, so don’t forget about it.

2. Buy a cheap plastic pool.

Is going for a swim in the pool on your list of things to do this summer? Your dog is probably in the same boat. To keep your dog cool, invest in a low-cost plastic kiddie pool (dogs’ nails can puncture an inflated one). If a pool is not available, a sprinkler or hose may provide entertainment and refreshment.

3. Take your dog for a walk during the day’s cooler hours.

If you walk your dog regularly, try to do so in the early morning or late afternoon when the sidewalks aren’t too hot. Your pet’s paws will be burned by hot sand or concrete. It’s best to avoid walking on concrete or asphalt if you have to do it during the day.

4. Always give them fresh water.

Never let your pet drink from lakes, oceans, or even pools while you’re on a swimming vacation, as this can be dangerous to him. If too much saltwater is consumed by a dog, it can cause dehydration, vomiting, and even death.

5. Watch out for signs of heatstroke.

It’s crucial to recognize the signs of heatstroke in your pet and to get him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Drooling, heavy panting and bright red gums are all early indicators of heatstroke in dogs. Lethargy, vomiting, and pale gums are signs of severe heat exhaustion.

You and your pet can have a great summer if you follow these basic safety tips for dogs during the summer season.