Loungin’ by the pool… running in the park… diving into the lake…taking that hike…. riding that bike… Summer is the season most of us look forward to for outdoor activities. Not only is it important to keep you and your family safe during the hot summer days, it’s also essential to take extra effort in ensuring your family dog is safe.
While our furry friends love the opportunity to spend time outside, higher temperatures and other summer dangers can put them at risk. We’ve fetched some tips for keeping “man’s best friend” safe and healthy this summer:
- If your dog is outside, make sure they have a cool, shady place to rest.
- Always have cool and clean water available for your dog to drink during hot days.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car in the heat, not even for a second.
- Avoid having your dog walk on hot sand, paved roads, or driveways, which can burn their paws.
- If your dog needs to be walked, try to take them early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Check your pet daily for fleas and ticks as to avoid unwanted illness.
- Know the signs of heat stress and contact your veterinarian immediately if you have cause for concern.
The summer months can be dangerous for dogs. By incorporating the tips above into your family safety plan, you can keep your pet happier and healthier during the dog days of summer.