The only thing that makes getting out in the sun better is when you can do it with your furry best friend. Dogs love to go outside no matter the weather, but when it’s hot and sunny, your pup needs extra care. Remember, if it’s hot for you, imagine what that does to your fur-covered dog. If you and your pup have been planning for a full summer, here are six safety tips for a happy dog all season long.
1. Provide plenty of water
When warm weather arrives, keep your dog hydrated at all times with a bowl of cool water inside and outside the house. Dogs need extra water not only for cooling, but also to aid digestion and lubricate joints, just like humans. A good rule to follow is to provide one ounce of water for every pound of your dog’s weight. Other ways to keep your dog hydrated are playing under the sprinkler and providing snacks like doggie ice cream, ice cubes, and seedless watermelon.
2. Practice pool safety
If you’re lucky enough to have a swimming pool, chances are your dog will love it! Pools are a fun way for Fido to stay cool, but practice water safety! First, make sure your dog can never access the pool when you’re not there. When your pool is installed by reliable pool builders, ask about putting up a fence. Always accompany your dog to the pool so that he can get in and out easily and does not drink the water. For dogs that can’t swim well, get a dog life jacket so they can enjoy the water as well.
3. Keep Pooch Comfortable on Car Rides
Responsible dog owners know that leaving a pet in a hot car can be a death sentence. If you take your dog for a walk when the mercury rises, keep him comfortable. Make sure the air conditioning is on or the windows are partially closed so your dog is also cooling down. Ideally, you should only take your dog in the car if he can get out when you reach your destination. Otherwise, it is a good idea to leave your house in the air conditioning.
4. Check the dog for ticks
Hot weather means the appearance of scary critters and that can be bad news for your dog. If you live in the countryside or go hiking with your dog, inspect him daily for ticks. Run your finger through your dog’s coat and along its paws while looking for bumps. Also be sure to check under his collar and in his ears. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers pulling as close to the skin as possible.
5. Plant a pet-friendly garden
If you enjoy gardening, be sure to use pet-friendly plants. Dogs are curious and are likely to walk into anything when you’re not looking. Common garden flowers that are poisonous to dogs include lily of the valley, azaleas, chrysanthemums, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons. Check that your plants and flowers are safe before buying them. Keep in mind that garden chemicals such as fertilizers, weed killers, insecticides and mulch of crushed cocoa bean shells are dangerous.
6. Pay attention to the puppy’s paws
If you’ve ever walked barefoot down your driveway, you know how it burns so imagine what it does to your pup’s paws! To protect those precious paws, avoid walking your dog on the sidewalk during the hottest hours of the day. Opt for grassy areas or use special dog shoes if your pet tolerates them. The pavement will help harden a dog’s paws, but wait until it’s cold. When you’re on the go, also be on the lookout for shards of glass, nails, and other debris.
Your dog loves summer as much as you do, so protect him! By providing plenty of water and practicing pool and car safety, you and your dog will have the best summer of your life.
