More Summer Dog Care Tips

Summer is the perfect time of year to enjoy a day at the park, a camping trip, or a family vacation and include your pooch or pup.

However, lately with the recent heat wave and other risks associated with summertime fun, it’s important dog owners take some time to understand dangerous situations and learn some care tips.

No Parking

The car. Lots of people want to take their dog for a ride to run an errand. Never leave your dog in the car even if you are only gone for a short period. Don’t trust the AC either. There have been situations when the AC has gone out and dogs have died from heat exhaustion. When you are traveling make sure to have plenty of water for your dog on the road, and always travel with your dog in a crate or harness.

Summer Fitness

Exercise is important for dogs even during hot times. Recent days have scorched to 100 degrees and above, so exercise your dog in the early morning or late evening when it’s much cooler.  Make sure to watch out for hot asphalt or concrete and give your dog water right after exercising.

Cool in the Shade

Spending the day at the beach or park sounds like fun. Just make sure your dog has shade to rest in between playing. Make sure you don’t overwork your dog, and frequently put them in the down and stay command so they can rest with plenty of water in between playing.

Panting Pooch

Know the signs of overheating. When a dog is panting heavily or having difficulty breathing as well as an increased heart rate, drooling, weakness or disorientation, it is likely they have heat exhaustion. If this occurs, immediately bring them indoors or in the shade, give them water and consult your vet.

Safe Splash

Many breeds love the water. Pools, lakes and beaches are a fun place to swim and interact. Dogs, like children, need 100 percent supervision when near water. If you have a pool, keep it gated and/or covered. If you’re on a watercraft make sure your dog has a safety vest. The Bid Eddy Float Coat Dog Lifejacket from www.fetchdog.com or the Designer PetSaver Lifejacket from www.carealotpets.com will keep your dog afloat in an accident.