Sun & Water Safety for Your Dog
Summer is once again right around the corner! As the temperatures rise, most people and their pups spend more time outside attempting to beat the heat in a variety of ways. Does your dog love to be outside? Here are a few key items to keep an eye out for to ensure your dog remains safe and cool in the summer months.
Sunburns
Did you know dogs can get sunburned? Dogs with thinner hair and lighter skin are more susceptible to sunburning on a sunny day. To avoid sunburns, make regular visits to the shade or indoors. Ask your veterinarian about dog-approved sunscreen options or invest in protective clothing which will allow your pup to be shielded from the sun.
Staying Hydrated
With any kind of play or exercise, it is important to replenish our bodies with water to stay cool and hydrated, dogs are no different! In the summertime, it is especially important to always have a clean and full water bowl available to your dog throughout the day and for post-play water breaks. Dehydration becomes a bigger problem when the temperature begins to rise, but this is easily avoidable with access to fresh water for your pup. Reminder: be mindful of the water bowl. If the dish begins to look hazy or dirty, replace the water in the bowl. Water bowls should be washed once every day to eliminate any debris or bacterial buildup.
Water Safety
If you live near a pool, lake, or ocean, playing in water is a great way to stay cool during the warm summer months. Before jumping in with your dog, check the source of water to ensure it is clean, clear, and free of debris. Dogs who are unfamiliar with water may be a little hesitant to jump right in. Rather than picking them up and placing them in an unknown situation, allow them to become comfortable at their own pace. Enticing them with treats and praise will make the new area more interesting and feel less unknown.
When having fun in water, it can be easy to forget the onset of symptoms of overexposure to sunlight and dehydration. Taking breaks from the sun is crucial during warm summer months and your pup will thank you for it. Once inside or in the comfort of shade, be sure to rehydrate with fresh water for you and your pup.
After a day of play in any form of water, a bath may alleviate built up dirt and bacteria and keep your dog’s skin moisturized.
Inside Time
Summer weather means a warmer temperature and longer daylight hours. Your pup may love soaking up the summer sun, but heightened temperatures require more concern when it comes to dehydration and sun exposure.
Rather than playing outside for an extended period of time or during peak sunlight hours, take your dog for their daily walk either before the sun rises too high in the sky or just as the sun sets. An easy way to tell if it’s too hot for your dog is the seven second test. Place your hand on the concrete or asphalt for seven seconds. If you cannot keep your hand on the surface for a consistent seven seconds, it is too hot for your dog to be walking outside. Daily exercise is still important, even in extreme weather conditions, which is why pet parents may want to adjust their schedule during the summer months to keep their pups safe.
If your pup needs more play but your schedule does not allow early morning or evening walks or you’re in an area where it’s still too hot for a walk around the block, schedule your dog for a day of daycare at your local Dogtopia! They will love playing all day long inside our indoor playrooms! Plus, we’ll introduce them to plenty of BFFFs (Best Furry Friends Forever) and come home tuckered out, ready for a long night’s rest. While they are playing with their BFFFs, they will not only get plenty of exercise, but will also work on their social skills they can show off at home. Ready for your dog to beat the heat at Dogtopia? Find a location near you by clicking here.
