Summer is here! And that means lots of outdoor fun with your pup! But how to take care of your dog in the summer?
Despite being one of the most anticipated seasons of the year, summer requires some extra care for your dog, especially when temperatures are very high. If you usually go out for a walk with your dog, play in the park, or partake in other types of outdoor activities, it is essential to take some basic care to prevent your dog from suffering from heat stroke or burnt paws.
To help you, we’ve listed some useful tips on how to take care of your dog in the summer!
How to Take Care of Your Dog in the Summer?
1. Be Mindful of Intense Heat Waves
During intense heat waves, your dog may show some signs that something is wrong. Signs that your pup isn’t doing well in the heat include drooling, panting, or an increased heart rate.
During the hottest times of the day, you should keep your dog in the shade, with fresh water within reach. It may be best to cut walks short on extremely hot days.
In addition, you can take your pup to the beach or a lake for some fun on the warmer days. Check out some dog-friendly beaches and lakes nearby NYC below:
Read More: 4 Dog Friendly Beaches in New York
Read More: 6 Dog Friendly Lakes in New York
2. Never Leave your Dog in the Car
Avoid leaving your dog in a closed car, as the sun and high temperatures can cause heat stroke and suffocation.
The temperature on a typical summer day can easily reach 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Inside a closed car, this temperature can double, causing numerous health problems for your dog. When left for even just a short period of time, the temperature can quickly climb and cause heat stroke or suffocation.
You can take your dog in the car with you, just make sure that you are present in the car and that the air conditioner is on. If you will need to get out of the car for any reason, such as running an errand, take your pup out of the car with you. Or simply just leave them at home in the air conditioning. Never leave your dog alone in the car during the summer time!
Read More: What Temperature is Too Hot to Walk a Dog?
3. Schedule a Check-up with the Vet
If your dog shows signs of dehydration, drooling, or panting during any summer activity, you should take him to the vet for a checkup.
Traveling with your dog in the heat can be very stressful for your pup, so it’s always best to check with your veterinarian first if this is a good idea. They will also be able to advise you on more specific care for your dog.
Read More: The Best Time of Day to Walk your Dog in the Summer
4. Keep Your Pup Hydrated
To keep your dog hydrated during hot days, it’s important to give them a refreshing meal and make sure they’re drinking enough water. If you don’t think that your pup is drinking enough water, you can add water to their meals for extra hydration.
In addition, there are some types of refreshing, healthy snacks that can complement your dog’s diet, such as watermelon or strawberries. You can also give your dog natural fruit ice creams such as mango or banana. Industrialized ice cream and other sweets are highly prohibited.
Just remember, all snacks in moderation!
Read More: 12 Fruits Dogs Can and Can’t Eat
Read More: Summer Diet for Dogs: 5 Healthy Snacks
5. Take Care of your Dog’s Paws
With high temperatures, it is normal for the floor to be hot. Therefore, before going out with your dog, you must make sure that the asphalt temperature is suitable for their paws.
When leaving the house, place the back of your hand on the floor and try to hold it for up to 10 seconds. If you feel uncomfortable, go home and return when the temperature is lower.
Remember that hot asphalt can burn your dog’s paws and cause serious injuries.
Read more: How to Protect Dogs’ Paws in Summer?
Final Thoughts – How to Take Care of your Dog in the Summer?
Summer is a great time of the year to walk your dog and do other outdoor activities, such as playing in the park or going swimming at the beach. But before doing any of these activities this summer, make sure that your dog is safe, comfortable, and hydrated!
Dog Walker Astoria
If you require help providing socialization opportunities for your dog and you live in Astoria, you can enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with Buster and Whiskers. We offer daily 1-hour Socialization Walks. If your pup is under-socialized, we will work with them to help desensitize them and get them ready for our Group Socialization Walks. You must live within our Astoria coverage area. In addition, your dog must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations. Laying a strong foundation in socialization is the best gift you can give your pup for a long and happy life together!
Buster and Whiskers is The #1 Dog Walking Service in Astoria, NY. If your dog needs more exercise or social interaction, enroll your pup in daily Socialization Walks with us. Contact us for a professional and reliable Dog Walker in Astoria! Follow us on Instagram!
