Did you know that one of the most important things you can do this summer is to keep your dog cool?
Summer is a fun season, with the potential for plenty of activities for both you and your pets. But, it may take some extra effort to keep your dog cool compared to you or your family.
This is because there may be different signs and symptoms of overheating, and certain breeds can be more sensitive than others.
However, there are a few simple tips you can implement in order to cool pets off during the hot summer.
Read on to learn about how to keep your pets cool during the toasty months of summer.
Protect them from Heat
The first thing a pet owner can do to make sure you have a cool dog is to protect them from the heat in the first place.
You can do this by ensuring that they have access to more than enough water, as heat can cause dehydration to happen much faster.
Moreover, try to take more frequent breaks in shaded spots to allow them to cool off every few minutes when you are on a walk or at the dog park.
Shield them from the Sun
The harmful effects of the sun are pretty well-known, from cancer to skin lesions.
This said sunscreen is always a good idea, for both your family and your pet. This is especially true for dogs that have thin coats, or lighter colored hair.
Make sure to reapply it often, and to give them time to cool off out of the sun when they begin to look hot or fatigued.
Never Leave Your Pet in the Car
Do not, understand any circumstances, leave your pet alone in the car. Even with the window partly down, this can still be a fatal mistake for your pet.
Dogs are not able to sweat as humans do, and this makes it more difficult for them to get rid of excess body heat, other than by panting or by getting out of the sun.
Moreover, cars heat up much faster than you think. A study in 2002 reported the temperature in the car can rise up to 19 degrees in just ten minutes.
Avoid the risk of injuring your pup by choosing to visit dog-friendly stores, or by saving un-dog-friendly places for a time when you are without them.
Think About Their Paw Pads
This tip specifically would be best for any dog that will be spending a lot of time walking on asphalt or cement.
Because pavement can be extremely hot in the summer, try to stick with grassier areas when you take them out during the hottest points of the day and keep your dog cool.
Keep Your Dog Cool All Summer
For many dog owners, their pets are a part of their family and their best friends. Therefore, it is natural to want to protect them from risks.
During the summer, while the outdoors can be fun for the both of you, it is important to take steps to keep your dog cool.
For another way to protect your pup from harm, check out our post of five surprising foods that are poisonous to dogs.