As the days get sunnier and longer, it's time to gear up for summer and ensure your dog stays safe and happy in the heat. Here are some crucial tips to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable this season.
1. Stay on Top of Grooming
Summer means more fun in the water for our dogs, but it also means potential grooming issues. When dogs swim, their coats can get matted, trapping moisture and leading to painful skin infections known as 'hot spots.' To prevent this, consider shaving your dog's coat to help keep them cool and infection-free.
Don't forget to clean and dry your dog’s ears after swimming or bathing. A dry ear canal helps prevent painful bacterial and yeast infections, ensuring your dog can hear you call for dinner time!
2. Keep Cool, Calm, and Comfortable
Help your dog beat the heat by incorporating these strategies into their daily routine:
- Hydration: Provide plenty of water, and opt for terracotta or plastic bowls that don’t absorb heat like metal ones.
- Ice Treats: Add ice blocks or frozen veggies like carrots and cauliflower to their water. Kids can help with this, making them feel involved in caring for the family pet.
- Shade and Indoor Coolness: Ensure your dog has plenty of shade and keep them indoors in a cool area during hot days. Air conditioning is particularly important for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds with low heat tolerance.
- Walks: Schedule walks for early morning or evening to avoid the heat of the day.
- Car Safety: Never leave your dog unattended in a car.
3. Heartworm Prevention
Mosquito bites aren’t just a nuisance for humans; they can also transmit deadly heartworm to dogs. Heartworm larvae, carried by mosquitoes, mature into adult worms that lodge in the heart and lungs. Prevention is crucial. Talk to your vet about the best preventive products, which include:
- Tablets
- Chews
- Topical treatments
- Injections
4. Monitor Sun Exposure
Dogs enjoy sunbathing just like we do, but they’re also vulnerable to harmful UV rays, dehydration, and heatstroke. Dogs with little to no fur on their bellies or light-skinned breeds like Dalmatians and Bull Terriers are particularly susceptible to skin cancer. Regularly check their bodies, ears, noses, and eyes for any changes. Dogs with pale noses are especially prone to sun damage. Consult your vet about pet-specific sunscreens and report any unusual symptoms to your local Vet.
5. Microchipping
Ensure your dog is microchipped and that your contact details are current. With more outdoor activities in the summer, there's an increased risk of getting separated. A microchip helps ensure a speedy reunion if your pet gets lost.
By following these tips, you can help your dog enjoy a safe and happy summer.