Summer is a great time to go on trips in the sun, do things outside, and spend important time with family and friends, including our pet friends. Even though it’s a happy and fun time of year, it’s important to remember that the scorching heat can be very dangerous for our dogs. We’ve put together this complete guide on how to take care of your dog during the summer to make sure they stay healthy and keep their tails moving.
The Key to Happiness Is Water:
Just like people, dogs can quickly lose water when they are in hot weather. Make sure your animal friend always has access to clean, fresh water. You could put ice cubes in their water bowl or buy a pet water fountain to keep the water cool and appealing. If you’re going to be outside, bring a small water bottle and a bowl that folds up so your dog can stay hydrated.
Pick the Best Time to Walk:
Taking your dog for a walk in the middle of the day when it’s hot can be uncomfortable for both of you and could be risky. Plan your walks for times when it will be cooler, like early morning or late evening when the sun isn’t at its hottest. Before you take your dog outside, put your hand on the ground to feel how hot it is. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Protection for paws:
During the summer, it’s important to keep your dog’s paws from burning on hot surfaces. Use paw wax that is safe for pets or buy dog boots to protect their feet from hot sidewalk, sand, or sharp items. These safety steps will keep your dog from getting burned or hurt, ensuring its happiness and well-being.
Don’t leave your dog in a car while it’s parked:
We can’t say this enough: never, ever leave your dog in a car while it’s parked in the summer. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise quickly, causing heatstroke, organ damage, or even death. If you can’t bring your dog inside, it’s best to leave it at home in a cool, well-ventilated room.
Make a Cool Hideaway:
Make sure that your dog has a cool, comfy place to go when the heat gets too much. Set up an area inside with good air flow using a fan or air conditioning. Outside, give them a covered place to stay or buy them a doggie pool where they can cool off and play around. You can also give them wet towels or cold mats to lie on to help them feel better in the heat.
Shade from the sun:
Even though you might not think so, dogs can also get burnt, especially those with lighter fur or skin that is uncovered. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to the nose, ears, and belly, which are all likely to get sunburned. Don’t use sunscreen made for people on your dog, because it may contain ingredients that are bad for dogs. Talk to your vet about what kind of sunscreen is best for your animal friend.
Keep an eye out for these signs:
Keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke, which in dogs can be fatal. There may be a lot of breathing, tiredness, drooling, puking, and problems with balance. If you see any of these signs, you should move your dog to a cool place and give it water to drink. You should also call your vet right away.
Summer should be a time when both you and your dog can have fun. By doing these important things, you can make sure your pet stays safe, cool, and happy all summer long. Remember that the best way to protect your pet from the summer heat is to take care of it before it gets too hot. Stay alert, drink plenty of water, and enjoy the warm weather with your How to Care for a Dog in the Summer in the UK
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