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    The Best Summer Safety Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

    The Best Summer Safety Tips for Keeping Your Dog Cool

    Whether it's long walks in the park, ambitious hikes, beach days, or simply lounging in the backyard, the summer season offers a plethora of activities for you and your dog. However, as much as we adore the sun's golden rays, it's essential to remember the heat can pose some risks to our furry pals.

    Just as humans need to protect themselves from the summer heat, dog parents must also consider summer dog care. Dogs, unlike humans, have a more limited ability to sweat — mainly through their paws — making it harder for them to cool down. And unlike us, they wear their fur coats all year long!

    But fret not, fellow dog parents! With a few summer safety tips for dogs, you can help your canine companion navigate the heat.

    How to keep your dog cool during summer

    Firstly, knowing how to cool down a dog in summer is crucial. Create a shady spot for your dog to relax, or better yet, keep them indoors with the air conditioning on. A child-sized wading pool filled with fresh water can be a great way to keep your dog cool and entertained. Remember, dogs can’t cool down as efficiently as humans, so it's essential to take extra precautions.

    • Provide sufficient water:

      Like humans, dogs too need to be hydrated during summers. Make sure that water is easily accessible for your pooch drink. You can also include wet dog food in its diet. Along with offering essential nutrients, it also ensures hydration with its high-moisture content.

    • Pay attention to their paws: 

      When it comes to paw care, be mindful of hot asphalt or sand, which can burn your dog's paws. Try to schedule walks during the cooler parts of the day, and consider using a moisturising paw balm to protect your pet's paws from cracking.

    • Let them rest up: 

      Summer isn’t the right season to go overboard with training. If your dog wants to lay down under the fan and enjoy the cool breeze, let it. However, if your dog is feeling restless due to all the pent-up energy, go for basic training.

    • Maintain proper hygiene: 

      Lastly, maintaining your dog's grooming routine during summer is essential. Brushing not only helps keep your dog’s coat free from mats, but it also helps prevent excess buildup of dead hair, which can lead to overheating.

    Regular grooming and maintaining their flea and tick treatments are other summer dog care tasks that shouldn't be neglected. Moreover, if you travel with your dog by a car regularly, do not leave them in a closed vehicle, especially during the summer season.

    Summer-related health concerns

    Dogs require extra care during summer, especially because they are prone to experience health concerns specific to the season. And they are:

    • Heatstroke

    Heatstroke in dogs is a serious condition that can occur when a dog's body temperature rises dangerously high, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to heat. Early signs include:

    • Heavy panting
    • Rapid breathing
    • Excessive drooling.

    As the condition worsens, your dog may exhibit:

    • Disorientation
    • Vomiting
    • Loss of consciousness or even collapse
    • Uncoordinated movement

    If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to cool your dog down immediately and seek veterinary care. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

    • Dehydration

    Dehydration, on the other hand, happens when more fluids leave your dog's body than they consume. This can be especially concerning during summer when dogs lose fluids through panting, urinating, and even sweat evaporation through their paws. Symptoms of dehydration include:

    • Panting
    • Dry gums and nose
    • Thick saliva
    • Lethargy
    • Sunken eyes
    • Loss of elasticity in the skin.

    While providing a bowl of fresh water is essential, adding an electrolyte-enhanced water might be necessary, especially during hot summer days. 

    Taking proper care of your pet during the sizzling summer months is indeed crucial, not just for their comfort but also for their health. Dogs can be vulnerable to the heat, and knowing how to keep dogs cool in summer is a necessary skill for all pet parents.

    Frequently asked questions

    How can I cool my dog down in the summer?

    To cool your dog in summer, ensure they always have access to fresh water and shaded areas. Consider using cooling mats, or even a paddling pool filled with cool water. Regular grooming can help improve airflow through their coat, and you can also offer them dog-friendly ice treats.

    What temperature is too hot for dogs?

    How do I know if my dog is too hot?

    Is summer good for dogs?

    Does hot weather affect dogs?

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