How to Take Care of Your Dog in Summer

Keeping your dog cool in the summer heat is all about careful planning and preparation, you need to understand what your dogs’ needs are and keep them happy and healthy as well as prevent them from suffering a heat stroke.

Many people aren’t sure how to take care of their dog in the best way, especially in summer. So, here are some tips to follow so that both you and your furry friend can safely and happily enjoy summer.

  1. Keep your dog hydrated
  2. The first thing you need to keep in mind is keeping your dog cool in the heat, while some pet owners allow their pets to sleep inside under the fan, air conditioning, or even in shaded areas, you can also put damp towels down for them to lie on. If you keep your dog outside, ensure that you invest in a cool bed, a paddling pool, or even keep the garden sprinkler on as the ground can get really hot in the peak of summer. Ensure that your dog isn’t tied in the hot sun and has a tree to lie under or even a dog house to escape the harsh sun.

  3. Avoid leaving your dog in a hot vehicle
  4. Putting dog inside car

    Even if you park your car in the shade with the windows down, the heat can be too much for your pooch. That will not only make your dog feel uncomfortable and distressed but can be fatal. Always check if you can take your dog with you in the store as some places allow this or leave your dog at home with your partner or even at a friend’s place for some time so that your dog isn’t enclosed in a hot and cramped up space.

  5. Do keep water available
  6. Dog Drinking water

    While it’s important to make sure that your dog has access to clean drinking water daily all year round, it’s especially important to keep water on hand during summer. Many online pet stores have portable water carriers and drinkers that are small and can easily be used for your dog at any time and any place. You can keep re-filling your dog’s water bowl and always be aware of their age, medical status, or breed before you take them for long walks in the heat. If your dog is old, has thick fur, or is ill, try taking them for a walk in the late evening or early morning when it’s cool outside.

  7. Introduce new puzzles and games
  8. Try to come up with games that don’t require a lot of running around outside or in the heat. You can try to include some pool activities, special food puzzles, or even freeze food and have your dog lick them or sniff them out. This will keep them active and stimulated without too much exertion.

  9. Ensure that your pet is well-groomed
  10. Regular grooming like trimming your pet’s fur, cutting their nails, bathing, and brushing them will keep them free of knots and allow them to keep cool. You can check online for a good shampoo tailored to your dog’s needs that allow them to get rid of fleas and mites as well as keeps them cool. Depending on your dog’s coat and the heat in your area, you can bathe your dog once a week and take them to a groomer or invest in some good grooming products online.

  11. Use sun cream for thin skin
  12. Just like humans, dogs’ skin can be really thin in certain places and at risk of burning in the sun if they aren’t protected. Certain areas like their nose, paws, and even stomach can be vulnerable, especially if your dog has really thin fur or is a breed with no fur at all. Sun cream for dogs is specially formulated and can be found online at most pet shops, always go for one that is natural and check with your vet which is the best cream for your dogs.

  13. Keep your dog’s paws safe
  14. Dog Paw care

    Most people don’t know but sand, cement, marble, or tarmac can get really hot in summer and if you find it warm to walk on with your flip flops, chances are your pet feels the same. Taking your dog for a walk in the heat can injure or damage their paws, leading to infections and pain. This is especially true for active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. Along with trimming your dog’s nails, it’s important to avoid taking them outside in the heat, if you must do activities, take your dog outside early in the morning or late in the evening when the ground has cooled.

    Another thing you can do is to invest in small shoes for dogs that allow them to run around and have an enjoyable time without hurting their paws. However, this might take some getting used to.

  15. Keep your dog healthy
  16. It’s important to ensure that your pet is fit, as healthier dogs and fitter tend to feel slightly less warm than overweight dogs. You can start by taking your dog for a run in the morning, and playtime in the evening as well as look online for healthier and organic pet food that can help them keep up their stamina and stay fit. Keep a watch on how much you are feeding them and ensure that they have enough water to drink during the day. Some online sites have a good range of dog food that is highly nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals that are great for your pet and will keep them feeling full for a longer time.

    Conclusion

    Keeping the above points in mind can help your pet have a good summer and feel happy and comfortable. Make sure the water that you give them is cool and not cold as they can catch a cold with frequently drinking cold water. You can also set down cold towels for your dog to help them cool down after a long walk and ensure that you keep them under the fan or in a shady and breezy spot to help them relax.

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