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Enjoying the sunny days and warm weather with your furry best friend is one of the best parts of summer. However, the season also brings potential hazards for dogs that pet parents should be aware of. Here are 10 tips to keep your pooch safe and happy on summer adventures. Whenever you are going out with your dog in summer, you will need to keep these summer safety tips in mind.
1. Protect paws on hot pavement
Asphalt and concrete can get extremely hot in the summer sun. Walk your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler. If you must be out at midday, check the pavement with your hand first - if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paw pads. Consider doggie shoes or stick to grassy areas. It may take some time for your dog to get used to them. Provide enough time and stay patient, so that your dog can walk out there on the roads without any discomfort.
2. Always bring water
Dehydration is a real summertime danger for dogs. Bring a portable water bowl and plenty of water on walks or trips to the park. Allow your dog to frequent water breaks in the shade. At home, check that bowls are kept full of cool, fresh water at all times. Consider freezing treats into ice cubes to munch.
3. Never leave dogs alone in cars
Even with windows cracked open, the interior of a car can reach deadly temperatures within minutes. Parking in shade or briefly running into a store is still unsafe. Leave your pup happily at home on quick errand runs.
If you are traveling with your dog in an RV, this can be quite tricky. That’s where you need to buy a pet temperature monitor. Using that, you can keep track of temperature inside the RV at all times. Hence, you don’t need to worry about heat stroke in dogs.
4. Watch for bee and wasp stings
When it comes to summer safety tips, you can’t ignore the problems that wasps and bees create. Curious canines love to sniff flowers and may unintentionally disturb a resting bee or wasp. Carry baking soda and Benadryl with you on outings in case of a sting. Seek prompt veterinary care if your dog has trouble breathing or collapses after being stung.
5. Protect dogs from sunburn
Light-colored and thin-coated breeds are especially vulnerable to sunburn on their ears and bellies. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to exposed skin when they’re out for over 30 minutes. Limit midday sun exposure as well.
6. Keep sleep schedules regular
Maintaining your dog's normal routine is crucial. Letting them sleep in very late or stay up extra late because it stays light out can negatively impact their circadian rhythm and health.
7. Brush up on poisonous plants
Many beautiful backyard and park plants like oleander, rhododendron, and azaleas are actually highly toxic for dogs. Teach kids not to pick unknown plants to avoid accidental poisonings after curious pups eat them. This is one of the most overlooked summer safety tips.
8. Practice boat and pool safety
Not all dogs are born swimmers! Supervise young pups, bully breeds, or any inexperienced swimmers around water. Introduce slowly while wearing a secure doggy life jacket. Also, apply pet-safe sunscreen to avoid reflected sun burns off the water's surface.
9. Take frequent breaks on hikes
Hitting trails with your buddy can overheat them faster leading to exhaustion. Schedule hiking early or late in the day and bring lots of water. Allow for rest breaks under shade trees or pop-up tents to prevent overheating. Know signs of heat stroke as well.
10. Protect against summer pests
Fleas, ticks and mosquitos boom in the summer months. Use veterinarian recommended prevention medications to fend off bites and transmitted diseases. Check your pup thoroughly after each outing as well since some pests can transmit life-threatening illnesses.
Stay vigilant this season and both you and your four-legged friend will enjoy the summer sun without incident. Always defer to your vet with any questions or health concerns. With preparation and awareness, you’re set up for memories instead of mishaps with your pup this summer.
