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How to Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy This Summer
Summertime: the season so many of us look forward to. A time to get out and explore, more often than not, with our four-legged friends. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure your pups are their healthiest and happiest during the warmer months.
When it's hot, dogs get much thirstier than we do. In order to cool down, their only real options are drinking water and panting. Since the majority of their sweating happens through their paws, a standard fan won't be much help if they begin to overheat. If possible, wet them down with a hose or have them play in a kid pool to help keep cool. If those options aren't feasible or your dog isn't a fan of water, try soaking a towel, vest, or mat in water. This will allow them to rest and cool down, and is especially helpful if the indoor temperature is high as well. Another great tip is to freeze chicken broth in an ice cube tray or whip up some pupsicles to help cool your dog down from the inside out. Add in some of our hemp tincture for extra wellness benefits that your dog will be sure to thank you for.
It's important to notice when your dog has been in the sun too long so you can help keep them at a safe, cool temperature. If your dog must be outside for extended periods, make sure they have open access to a shaded area and plenty of water. Additionally, when humidity is higher than 70%, dogs have a difficult time cooling themselves down properly, so keep water handy and avoid long walks or keeping them outside during the hottest parts of the day. This helps protect their paws, doesn't make their walk too strenuous, and ensures they can regulate their temperature.
A Few More Tips to Help Your Pup Make the Most of Summer
No Warm Cars
We know, this is the well-known one. However, it still seems to surprise people when they find out just how quickly a car can heat up. On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows slightly open can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. Check out this video to see a vet stay in a car for 30 minutes to show what it's like.
Up-to-Date Medication
As the months warm up, make sure that your dog is current on all mosquito, parasite, flea, and tick medications. Watch for dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, whose symptoms include lethargy, limping, and loss of appetite. Here is a list of common summertime diseases your dog may be prone to.
Watch Them Around Water
With more time spent around bodies of water, it's extra critical to watch your dog. During the warmer months, algae blooms are increasingly common, and dogs can develop neurological and kidney damage from drinking or swimming in contaminated water. Additionally, if you are a new dog owner, do not assume they know how to swim. Make sure they can't get into a deep body of water without you around until you are familiar with their skill level.
Protect Against Burns
Just like humans, dogs can get sunburnt as well. If your dog has a thin, light coat, talk to your vet to see if they could benefit from sunscreen on long days out. This helps prevent skin issues and keeps them much more comfortable. In addition to their skin, their pads can also get burnt, so keep your dog off any asphalt and metal that has been exposed to sun at length.
We know that was a lot, but it's all to say that it's important to keep a closer eye on your furry friend this time of year. You and your dog can, and should, still enjoy the warmer months together. If you want to support your dog's calm and comfort during busy summer adventures, explore our hemp for dogs collection. Happy trails!
