Summertime is a great time to get out and have fun with your dog! However, there are a few things to watch out for. Keep these 10 summer safety tips for dogs in mind to help keep your dog safe. Dogs can easily become overheated in the summer sun, so always make sure they have plenty of water and shade to cool off in. And be careful when driving with your dog – never leave them in the car unattended, as even with the windows cracked open it can quickly become too hot inside.
1. Give Your Dog Plenty of Water & Shade
Water is essential for all animals, especially dogs, in the summer heat. Give your dog access to plenty of freshwater and make sure they have a shady spot to cool off in. Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on their water intake.
2. Give sunscreen
If you’re going to be out in the sun, make sure your dog has sunscreen on their nose and exposed skin. Dogs can get sunburned just like humans, so it’s important to protect them from harmful UV rays.
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a short period of time. The inside of a car can heat up quickly, and dogs can suffer from heatstroke and even die if they’re left in a hot car.
3. Kiddie Pool or Sprinkler to Keep Cool
Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water, both inside and out. A kiddie pool or sprinkler is a great way to help them keep cool in the summer heat.’
4. Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Hot Sand & Pavement
Avoid walking your dog during the hottest hours of the day. Stick to early morning or evening walks when it’s cooler outside.
5. Don’t Leave Your Dog Alone in a Hot Car
Dogs can’t sweat like humans do, so they can only cool themselves by panting and through the pads on their feet. This means that they are at risk of overheating if they are left in a hot car. Make sure to never leave your dog alone in a car, even for a short period of time.
6. Don’t Let Your Dog Over exert Themselves
Dogs can overheat quickly, so it’s important not to let them overexert themselves. If you’re going to be out in the heat, make sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog, and take breaks often in the shade.
7. Be Careful of Hot Pavement
Pavement can get incredibly hot during the summer, and this can burn your dog’s paws. Try to walk on grass when possible, and if the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paw pads.
8. Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Avoid taking your dog for long walks or runs during the hottest part of the day. Stick to cooler times like early morning or evening.
9. Watch Out For Doggie Sunburn
Dogs can get sunburn too, so be sure to apply sunscreen to their noses and any other exposed areas. You can also buy special doggie sun shirts to help protect them from the sun.
10. Make Sure Your Dog is Wearing Identification
Make sure your dog is wearing identification. A collar with ID tags is the best way to make sure your dog can be returned to you if they get lost.
By following these summer safety tips, you can help keep your dog safe and enjoy a fun summer together! What are some of your favorite summer activities to do with your dog? Let us know in the comments!
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