Almost all countries have times of the year where the temperature rises. It is important to help your dog navigate these months to ensure your best friend stays safe and healthy. Here are a few tips to help you help your dog.
Water!
You can add water to play time. If you dog likes water, a doggie pool is an easy way to have fun and keep your pet cool. You can purchase a kiddie pool and fill it up. Your dog will thank you on a hot day. A word of caution – do not leave your dog unattended and be careful not to fill the pool too high.
Just as kids love sprinklers, your dog may too! You can set up the sprinkler and let your dog run through it and play. And better yet, get your suit on and hop in too!
Ensure a proper weight
If your dog is not at the ideal weight, it could be harder for him or her to regulate their temperature and keep themselves cool. It is best to speak to your veterinarian to determine the optimal way to tackle this issue.
Maybe not the time for a haircut
It seems counter-intuitive
but your dog’s coat not only keeps them warm in the cooler months, it also can help keep them cool. Do not take the shears and cut it all off. It is good to regularly brush your dog to get the undercoat out and that will help to keep him or her cool as well.
The surface can be hot
During the warmer months, the surface that we walk on can get very hot. If it would be too hot for you to walk on barefoot, your dog is feeling the same way. A quick way to judge is to put the back of your hand down for 5 to 7 seconds. If it is hot for you, your dog would agree with you! One option is to purchase books to protect the paws.
Protect the skin
Dogs can get skin cancer and sunburned on days where you are outside for a prolonged period of time. You can purchase sun-blocking clothing for your pet that will block the sun and keep them safe.
If your dog has a thin coat of hair or no hair, you can use sunscreen made especially for dogs. Apply sunscreen to the areas where the hair is thin or nonexistent and reapply if you are outside for a long period of time.
Exercise at the cooler times of day
Choose a time of day when it is the coolest – or potentially you made need to skip outdoor exercising altogether if it is too warm. A walk on a very warm day can put your dog at risk of heat stroke so use your best judgement.
This is not an all-inclusive list for keeping your best friend cool in the hot months and I am sure you have great ideas of your own!
