How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy in Summer
Everybody looks forward to spending time outdoors in the summer. If you have a dog, you will be excited to go out exploring with them. But, let’s not forget that it gets boiling in the summer months.
Some dogs that have thick and furry coats do not do well when it is hot outside.
What’s more, all dog breeds cannot sweat like humans and find it hard to cool themselves down. This means that you have to be extra careful with your furry friend. Here are some useful tips to keep your dog happy and healthy during the summer.
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Safety and Freedom
Most dogs enjoy being able to explore freely, especially when you’re on vacation or on an adventure. Unfortunately, some dangers come from this desire to explore. Your dog might be prone to escaping from an unfenced yard, or they might wander too close to danger when you’re walking around.
The common solution to this is to use a leash when walking your dog and a chain for when you’re at your place of residence. But many dogs and dog owners prefer a less restrictive option that doesn’t sacrifice safety.
Training is obviously a great way to keep your dog safe, especially if you train your dog stay and recall commands. You can integrate training with the Halo collar, often considered the best wireless dog fence on the market.
Wireless dog fences allow you to be flexible with your dog, while still ensuring that they’re safe no matter where you are.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
It is important to remember that dogs are at real risk from heatstroke in the summer. As their owner, you are in charge of making sure that this does not happen, as it can put them in real danger. The best way to avoid this is to know the signs of heatstroke. Here are some symptoms you need to look out for in the summer:
- A lot of panting;
- Excessive drool;
- Very red gums;
- Diarrhea;
- Lethargy;
- Vomiting;
- Shaky legs.
If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, it is important to visit a vet straight away for treatment.
Feed More for Adventures
If you go on hikes or adventures with your dog, make sure that you pack a bag with all of its essentials in it. This includes extra food for your pooch. They are going to be burning more calories, and the excitement will make them tired.
Thus, they are going to need more food on adventure days. If your canine is not used to many exercises, it can be beneficial to start a joint supplement. This will ensure that they do not become lame or pick up any injuries during the summer.
Consider incorporating a reliable joint supplement like Mighty Munch to support your dog’s joint health and overall well-being.
How to keep a dog happy: provide shade
There is nothing better than spending a day outside in the garden with your family. Of course, this includes spending time with your pooch. They will be happy to run around, play, and sunbathe.
You have to make sure that you provide your dog with enough shade for when they are feeling too hot and want to cool down. Sometimes, if your dog is having a lot of fun, you will encourage your pup to take some time out. A nice shady and cool area under a canopy or gazebo will be great for your pup and allow them to have a break from all of the fun.
Use Sunscreen
Remember that sunscreen is not just for people. Your dog is going to benefit from wearing it, too, especially if any of their skin is exposed and they have a short coat. In particular, the nose, ears, and belly are going to benefit from wearing sunscreen. There are many dog products online that you can purchase, which should be applied every few hours to be safe. Then your dog can lay in the sun, and you can enjoy peace of mind.
Watch When You Walk
Talking out your dog for a walk in the sunshine is pleasant and enjoyable. But, sometimes, it is too hot for your canine. This is something you have to be mindful of during the summer.
It is going to be best to walk your pooch early in the morning, as well as in the evening. These are the coolest times of the day where your dog can safely expend some energy. If you are out for short walks during the day, oversee your pup and take breaks and seek some shade.
Always Have Fresh Water
If there is one thing that every canine should have access to when it is hot outside, it is freshwater. Always make sure that you keep their bowl full of fresh and cold water when the temperatures rise. Dogs love to sunbathe in the sun and be outdoors. But, it is easy for them to get dehydrated, and this can lead to heatstroke. Keeping a bowl near to them is going to allow them to stay cool.
How to keep a dog happy: avoid hot cars
Road trips are always planned for the summer. If you are taking your dog, make sure that you do not leave them in the car unattended. It can get scorching for your pooch, and this can endanger their life. Besides, when you are traveling in the car with your canine, always have the air conditioning on to feel comfortable.
