Summer Safety Tips for Dogs: Beat the Heat!

Firstly, Pay Close Attention to Hygiene

It's a recurring theme, but it's crucial to maintain cleanliness and hygiene, especially during the summer when pests like fleas, lice, heartworms, tapeworms, and ticks are more prevalent. Pets, particularly dogs, are more susceptible to parasites during this season. When cleaning your dog, be observant for any signs of infestation. If you spot any, don't hesitate to take your furry friend to the vet for treatment. In the summer, it's even more important to keep your dog clean. Generally, bathing your dog every 7 to 14 days is recommended. You can use medicated shampoos to prevent parasites.

During the summer, lush grass can hide potential dangers. Ticks are particularly active in tall grass, and a bite can lead to infections like Babesiosis. Lawns might also be treated with fertilizers, pesticides, or rat poison, which can be harmful if ingested by your dog. Therefore, when walking your dog, it's best to steer clear of dense grassy areas.

Secondly, Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs

As temperatures rise in the summer, dogs can suffer from heatstroke just like humans. There are two main types: sunstroke and heat exhaustion. Sunstroke occurs when a dog is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period. To prevent sunstroke, it's advisable to take your dog out for walks in the early morning or late evening, avoiding the hottest parts of the day, and allowing them to move slowly in shaded areas. Heat exhaustion is caused by being in a hot, poorly ventilated environment.

If you use air conditioning at home, ensure the air is fresh. Prolonged exposure to air conditioning can also lead to "air conditioning sickness" in dogs, with common symptoms including colds and joint inflammation. Additionally, never leave your dog in a parked car, as the temperature inside can soar quickly, increasing the risk of heatstroke.

Thirdly, Be Mindful of Feeding and Watering

In the summer, dogs often experience a decrease in appetite. If you're not feeding commercial dog food, ensure that your dog's meals are freshly prepared. Eating spoiled food can lead to gastrointestinal issues like gastroenteritis, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. If your dog shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or general weakness after eating, seek veterinary care immediately. If you are feeding commercial dog food, make sure to measure portions accurately. Dogs tend to drink more water in the summer, so it's essential to provide fresh water frequently. If using tap water, let it sit to allow chlorine to settle before giving it to your dog.

Fourthly, Trim Hair to Aid in Cooling

In the summer, dogs are more prone to skin issues. With thick and long fur, combined with their limited ability to cool down through sweating, it's important to keep their coats wellmaintained. Regular grooming is recommended, and if necessary, the fur can be trimmed slightly but never shaved completely. It's best to have this done by a professional pet grooming service. While many believe that shaving a dog's fur in the summer can help lower their body temperature and improve hygiene, it actually leaves their skin exposed to the sun, increasing the risk of skin diseases.