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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 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 with some tasty treats. Add in some of our tincture for extra health 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 of time, 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 it is important to 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.
Here are a few more tips to help your pup make the most of summer with you!
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, for example, 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. Other dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Symptoms of these include lethargy, limping, loss of appetite and more. Here is a list of the 10 most 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 in the water.
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 cancer and keeps them much more comfortable and happy! In addition to their skin, their pads can also get burnt. 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! It’s just important to look out for warning signs to ensure they can enjoy your adventures just as much as in the cooler months. Happy trails!
