Summer Safety for Pets – Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool in Hot Weather
Hot weather can get unbearable, not just for you but for your four-legged friend too. So, while you’re busy summer shopping for yourself or preparing refreshing drinks for the family, don’t forget that your pup needs some help too to beat the heat. Here are some simple but useful tips to keep your dog cool and comfortable in summer:
1. Keep Them Out of the Dog House/Bed
Your furry friend may have grown used to sleeping in its designated space, i.e., the dog house or bed, and you may like it that way as well. It is best however not to let your dog sleep there when the mercury on the thermometer rises and the hot weather becomes unbearable.
Dog houses typically have poor airflow, making them unsuitable and even potentially dangerous for your pet during the hot weather. And dog beds are usually keeping our pooches warm which we want to reduce during those heatwave days. Give your dog a cool spot to lie down, instead. You can use a cooling beds instead if you prefer your pooch to have a designated sleep space.
2. Set Up a Shaded Area Outdoor
While it’s best to stay indoors during the day when summer is in full swing, and the temperature rises a little too high, you won’t likely always be successful in it as (most) dogs love to be outdoors. So, it’s best to have a shaded spot in your backyard if you have one or to pick up few spots around your home where the sun rarely reaches. If you have a covered patio, that’s great. If not, you can use an umbrella, a pop-up canopy, or a sunshade. There are shaded pet cots available too now, and they also make great resting spots for dogs who love to stay outdoors.
3. Skip Exercise on Extremely Hot Days
Check the temperature and humidity level every day before taking your dog out for a walk or some exercise. If the levels are a little too high, skip the activity on that day. You may use dog toys to keep your pup engaged and happy on such days.
4. Have Fresh Drinking Water Available At All Times
Staying hydrated is the most important thing in the summer season. And just like you, the scorching sun can get your doggo dehydrated too. Therefore, make sure your dog has access to fresh drinking water all the time, whether you’re at home or outside.
When your dog is outside, walking, or playing, it’s best to make them drink a little water every 15 to 20 minutes.
5. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car
The temperature can rise quickly and to higher extremes inside a car on a hot summer day. To prevent overheating, never leave your pooch inside the car, even if you’re going away for just a few minutes. Moreover, always keep the air conditioning on, whether you’re driving around or parked somewhere.
A Little Care Can Make Summer Season Enjoyable for Both You and Your Pet
Summer is a fun time. People love to go out, party and enjoy outdoor adventures as the weather starts to get warm. However, it can get uncomfortable when the temperature rises a little too much. And this doesn’t just apply to you, but your beloved dog as well. So, make sure you pay attention to your furry friend, too, and help them stay cool in hot weather.
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