Warm weather means more time spent outdoors, and if you have a dog, you know they will want to join you in your adventures. Taking care of yourself during the summer is important, but you should also be ensuring the safety of your companion.
1. Your dog should have a summertime grooming routine
Grooming isn’t just for looks. It can help keep your dog healthy, especially when it is hot outside. Depending on the breed, their grooming schedule will look different, but here are some things to keep in mind.
- Brushing: This should be done regularly, especially for double-coated breeds. It helps remove dead skin to keep them cool and lets you check for any hidden issues. Their hair can mat and trap moisture too, which may cause skin irritation.
- Bathing: Although bathing your dog too often can cause coat damage, you will likely find yourself giving them baths more in the summer. This is typically okay because they will have more dirt, mud, and foreign debris (like burrs) to get rid of.
- Flea, tick, and parasite prevention: This should be a regular part of your dog’s care, especially in the summer. These pests are more active when it is warm, so be careful to never miss a dose.
- Haircuts: Not all dogs need summertime trims, but long-haired and double-coated breeds should have them. Do not shave your dog in the summer unless your professional groomer says it is okay. Shaving them can cause loss of temperature regulation and heat stroke.
2. Offer plenty of shade and cooling options
Your furry friend needs a place to escape the heat, whether you’re at home or out and about. If they spend time outside, make sure there’s a shady spot where they can rest. Indoors, a fan or air conditioning works wonders.
Want to help your pup chill out even more? Try these simple ideas:
- A cooling mat for them to lie on
- A shallow kiddie pool for a quick splash (keep it in the shade)
- Frozen treats made from dog-safe ingredients like blueberries or low-sodium broth
These little touches go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable on the hottest days.
3. Keep your dog hydrated
Water is your dog’s best friend when temperatures climb. Dogs cool themselves down by panting, and that uses up a lot of moisture, so they need to drink more in the heat. Always keep a clean bowl of fresh, cool water within reach, both inside and outside.
When you head out for a walk or adventure, bring water along. A collapsible bowl makes it easy to offer your dog a drink every few minutes. You can even add a couple of ice cubes to keep things cool. Just skip the icy-cold water straight from the freezer if they are hot, since a sudden chill can be a shock to their system.
4. Time your walks for the cooler hours
Midday heat is no fun for anyone, especially your dog. When the afternoon sun is at its strongest, it’s best to keep walks short or save them for another time. Early morning and evening are your sweet spots, when the air is cooler and the ground isn’t scorching.
5. Take care of your dog’s paws
Speaking of the ground, hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws before you even realize it. Here’s an easy test: press the back of your hand to the sidewalk for about five to seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. When in doubt, stick to grassy areas or shaded paths.
6. Watch for signs of overheating
Dogs can’t always tell when they’ve had too much heat, so it’s up to us to keep an eye on them. Overheating and heat stroke are serious health concerns, and knowing the warning signs can make all the difference. Some breeds (like flat-faced dogs), senior dogs, and young puppies have a harder time cooling down, so watch them especially closely.
Keep an eye out for these signs:
- Heavy panting or drooling
- Bright red or bluish gums
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of coordination or confusion
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Shaking or trembling
If you notice any of these, move your dog to a cool spot right away, offer small sips of water, and call your vet immediately. Quick action can truly save a life.
7. Never leave your dog in a hot car
This one is simple but so important: never leave your dog alone in a parked car, not even for a minute. The temperature inside can climb to dangerous levels in no time, and a quick errand can turn into an emergency. If your dog can’t come inside with you, it’s safer to leave them at home where they can stay cool.
8. Be careful with swimming and outdoor play
A splash in the water can be a wonderful way for your dog to cool off, but a little caution goes a long way. If your pup loves to swim, make sure they always have a safe, easy way to get out of the water. Afterward, give them a quick rinse to wash off any dirt or bacteria, and check their ears to help prevent infections.
Need safe summer boarding for your dog?
At Willow Creek Kennels, we know that summer care of dogs is vital for their health and happiness. That’s why we offer cooled indoor shelter, plenty of fresh water, and shade to keep your pup comfortable.
If you are going away and looking for the best boarding experience for your furry friend, you can call us at 806-383-6155 or stop by in person at 4339 St Francis Ave, Amarillo, TX 79108 to see our facilities.
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