Today marks the official start of summer. Following are tips for keeping your pup safe and cool all season long.
Hot Dog!
Water should be made available to your pup at all times. If you will be out and about during the day, have at least a gallon of water per pup with you. Bring a small dish and a bottle of water along on shorter walks and potty breaks. The Lixit Dog Travel Water Bowl ($14.99) holds up to 3 quarts of water which conveniently dispenses into the built in bowl.
The H2O to Go Pet Water Dispenser ($21.90) (shown right) offers ultra convenience for pups on the go. Simply fill the attached water bottle (or replace with a store-bought bottle) and flip open to serve. The H2O to Go features a belt clip for easy access during hiking and camping adventures.
Coat Check
If your pup has a long or thick coat, consider having them shaved or trimmed. An experienced groomer can recommend the appropriate summer hair length for your pup’s breed. Generally speaking, hair can be trimmed as short as 1/2 an inch without increasing your pup’s risk for sunburn. Yes, dogs can get sunburned just as easily as humans!
If you will be outdoors for an extended period of time, you may want to apply a specially formulated dog sunscreen (sunscreen for humans is a no-no and can make your pup sick). And hey – don’t forget that cute little nose. Veterinatrians Best Spray Sunscreen with Aloe Vera ($5.95)
Mercury Rising
Keep an eye on your pup for signs of overheating. This is especially the case in short-nosed breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs. As little as 15 minutes in 85+ degree heat can elevate a dog’s body temperature to critical levels.
Ouch, Asphalt is HOT! Your pup’s pads are sensitive and can burn quickly. Limit your pup’s contact with sidewalks, streets and driveways during the day. Hot asphalt not only burns your pup’s paws but it raises their body temperature faster than if they stand in the grass or shade. Keep those furry little feet in the grass and in shady areas as much as possible.
Never, ever, ever leave your pet alone in a parked car. Never. No amount of time is safe. A parked car quickly becomes an oven in the summer sun. Opening the windows does not create enough ventilation either. Sorry, there are absolutely no exceptions to this rule.
If you see a dog alone in a parked car on a hot day, try to locate the owner. If this is unsuccessful, call the SPCA or local police to free the animal. If time is of the essence, free the dog yourself. People are rarely cited for taking action to free a distressed animal; in fact, the owner will probably be cited for animal cruelty. Once freed, move the dog into the shade and provide cool water for them to drink. If possible, apply cool compresses to the dog’s belly area and feet. This lowers body temperature faster than by drinking water alone. Seek veterinary care.
Bug off!
When walking your pup, steer clear of areas that you suspect have been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals. As an extra safety measure, wipe your pup’s feet off with a gentle antibacterial wipe after a walk in the park. We use Nature’s Miracle Pet Wipes ($8.99 for 70)
At home, use pet-friendly lawn care products. In recent years, lawn care manufacturers have listened to pet owners and have developed a wide array of products that are safe yet effective. Natural, home-made remedies and organic lawn care products are an ideal choice. To read more about organic lawn care visit: www.cleanairgardening.com
Hold the Mayo!
Having a barbecue? Keep your pup away from the hot grill and keep matches, fluid and insect repellents out of reach. Certain summer foods like avocados are toxic to pets. Read our post on summer snacking:
What’s Your BBQ IQ? Snack Safely With Your Pup This Summer
Doggie Paddle
If you have a pool, take special precautions to make sure your pup can’t can’t get in when you’re not around. There are a variety of pool safety products for pets – we like the Skamper Ramp ($39.95-$98.95) which helps your pup exit the pool safely should they fall in.
Fussy Pup cannot recommend enough that you teach your pup how to swim. Even if you do not have a pool or live near a body of water, teaching your pup to swim could safe their life. What if your three-year-old drops your 18 week Yorkie in the tub? What if your area succumbs to flooding like the recent catastrophe in Iowa?
When our oldest Pug Delilah was only 3 months old, we taught her how to swim. We did this not only for her safety, but also to introduce her to a form of exercise she could enjoy her entire life. Swimming is considered one of the best forms of exercise for humans – and dogs. The sport works the entire body; improving muscle strength and supporting overall cardiovascular health. Because swimming is considered low-impact, an older pup with arthritis can enjoy paddling a few laps without discomfort. Stay tuned to Fussy Pup for a future article on teaching your pup how to swim.
La Dolce Vita
We hope you will take plenty of time to savor the endless offerings of the season with your pup. Till next time, stay safe and well and keep those little tails wagging.
Fussy Pup
*Fussy Pup does not participate in any affiliate programs, nor do we produce or sell any of the products on our site. Featured products come from personal product satisfaction and referrals from friends and readers like you. Unless otherwise stated, purchasing products featured on our site will not result in donations to animal advocacy organizations and/or efforts. We’re working on Fussy Pup sponsorships and donation programs…stay tuned!
Coming soon on Fussy Pup:
Teach your Fussy Pup How to Swim
Pain Management for Pets
Dealing with Separation Anxiety
Soothing Fourth of July Fireworks Fears
For those who can’t leave your pets behind here are some travel tips so visit your local pet supplies store:
• Make sure your pet’s shots are up-to-date.
• Do not administer any medication or treatments without first discussing them with your veterinarian.
• Obtain documentation from your vet to show that your pet’s vaccinations are current, and that your companion is healthy.
• If you are traveling to another country, check with that nation’s embassy.
• Make sure your pets are wearing collars with current Identification tags.
• Pack any medications your pet may be taking.
• If you are traveling by automobile, think about the animal’s safety as well as your own.
• Do not leave an animal unattended in a vehicle.
• Check with the Airline Carrier for specific requirements when traveling with your pet.
• Try to book a direct flight to your destination to eliminate additional stress by airline transfers.
• Call your hotel/motel ahead to confirm that pets are accepted and if any additional fees are required.
Good dog Panda !!
Thanks for the travel tips – we love hitting the road with our Pups, but it takes extra planning.
Sounds like a good topic for a future post – where is your favorite place to travel with your pets?
Fussy Pup