10 Top Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

Summer is a great season to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend. However, summer can come with a variety of health concerns for your pup. Whether you’re heading to the beach, going on hikes or simply spending time in the backyard, here are some essential summer safety tips for dog owners that will help ensure a happy and worry-free season for both you and your beloved companion.

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1. Hydration Is Key: Ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times, especially during hot summer days. Bring a portable water bowl and offer water frequently during outdoor activities. Avoid leaving your dog in a parked car to prevent heatstroke. If you’re struggling to find a quality water bowl, there are plenty of dog collar and leash sets that come with portable water bowls your dog will love.
2. Protect Them from Heat and Sun: Dogs can easily overheat, so take precautions to protect them from the sun and high temperatures. Avoid exercising or walking your dog during peak heat hours and opt for early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler. (Valium) Provide shade in your backyard, use pet-friendly sunscreen on them and consider using cooling products like a damp towel or cooling mat to help regulate body temperature. These are things you can do for yourself, too, to stay cool and dry while you’re outside with them.

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1. Never Leave Your Dog Unattended Near Water: While water activities can be enjoyable for dogs, it’s essential to supervise them at all times. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even those who are may encounter difficulties in unfamiliar bodies of water. Riptides can happen even in lakes or other bodies of water — if there’s a beach, there’s a chance for a rip current. Always keep a watchful eye, use a life jacket when boating or swimming and provide a safe exit point such as a dog ramp or steps for pools. Keeping your dog safe is your number one priority as a dog owner, so this is the least you could do for them!
2. Avoid Hot Surfaces: Remember that asphalt, sand and concrete can become scorching hot during summer. Before taking your dog for a walk, check the ground temperature with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Walk on grass or shaded areas whenever possible, or use dog booties to protect their feet from burns and discomfort. These booties can make your dog walk weird at first, but once they get used to them, they’ll be very glad to have cool paws.
3. Keep Them Up to Date on Their Flea and Tick Protection: Summer brings an increase in parasites like fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. Ensure your dog is up to date on flea and tick prevention, and consider using mosquito repellents specifically designed for dogs. Regularly check your dog’s fur for any signs of ticks or fleas, and consult your veterinarian for the most effective prevention methods. If you have the budget, it might be worthwhile to get your yard treated consistently to prevent your dog from coming across any insects or parasites while outdoors.
4. Get Them Moving: While it’s important to avoid excessive exercise during hot hours, regular physical activity is still crucial for your dog’s well-being. Plan exercise sessions during cooler times of the day, engage in interactive play or consider indoor activities like puzzle toys or obedience training. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise to keep your dog happy and healthy! When your dog spends time outside, make sure they’re outfitted with the proper tracking tile for pets so you can keep a close eye for safety.

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1. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Heatstroke is a serious condition that can occur quickly in dogs. Be aware of the signs, which include excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, rapid breathing, vomiting and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool area, provide water, wet them with cool (not cold) water and seek veterinary assistance immediately.
2. Keep BBQ and Picnic Food Out of Reach: Summer often means gatherings and delicious barbecues, but certain foods can be toxic or harmful to dogs. Keep chocolate, alcohol, grapes, onions and foods high in fat or spices out of reach. Remind guests not to feed your dog table scraps, as it can lead to digestive issues or other health problems.
3. Protect Against Allergies and Irritants: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies and irritants. Keep an eye out for signs of allergies such as itching, redness, sneezing or paw licking. Avoid walking your dog in areas with tall grass or weeds, rinse their paws after outdoor activities and consult your veterinarian for appropriate allergy management strategies.
4. Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car: Leaving a dog unattended in a parked car, even for a short period, can be life-threatening. On a hot day, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke and even death. Always take your dog with you or leave them at home in a cool, comfortable environment

As a responsible dog owner, it’s crucial to prioritize your pet’s safety and well-being during the summer months. By following these 10 essential summer safety tips, you can protect your dog from the hazards of heat, sun, water, parasites and other seasonal challenges. With proper hydration, protection from the elements, supervision near water and awareness of potential risks, you can ensure that your furry friend stays healthy, happy and safe while enjoying summer adventures together.