Summer Fun With Your Dog

Summer Fun With Your Dog

There are many great ways to have fun with your dog over the summer. From long walks on forest trails to a swim on a sunny beach, getting out and about with your pet is a great way for the whole family to enjoy a beautiful day.

With the recent heatwave, it can hard to go out for long periods of time for both you and your dog.  Remember, if the pavement is too hot to keep the back of your hand on it for longer than 10 seconds, it is too hot for your pup’s feet. There are plenty of activities you can do at home in order to keep you and your pup busy on a hot day. Trick training is a great way to challenge your dog both mentally and physically. Whether it be a simple trick like shake a paw or something a bit more challenging like learning to leap over a jump, tricks are a great way to show off yours and your dog’s skills.

If you are concerned about the summer heat affecting your dog, here are some great tips and tricks on how to keep them cool:

Water – Make sure that wherever you travel, you have water available for your pooch. Be sure to have a travel bowl available with a bottle of water or, for more convenience, you can purchase a pet water dispenser that serves as a bottle and bowl all in one.

Keeping wet – Dogs do not sweat like we do. Any excess heat is released through panting or sweat through the pads of their feet. Having a source of water available that your dog can stand in is a great way for them to lower their body temperature. Buying a cheap plastic baby pool or sprinkler for the backyard will not only provide your pet with a fun place to splash around, but can also give you a place to cool your tired feet.

Cooling jackets, bandanas, and beds – Many pet stores have products that you can soak in cold water for your dog to lie on or to wear. These products hold the water, and they maintain a cool temperature which help your dog from getting overheated.

Footwear – We have heard the saying that the pavement is hot enough to cook an egg. Keep in mind that, if the pavement is too hot for you to walk on in bare feet, it is too hot for your dog’s feet as well. Staying on grass or dirt paths or buying booties for you pup will help to protect their pads from the heat of the concrete.

Grooming – Imagine what it would be like to spend the entire summer in a great big fur coat. This is the reality for many dog breeds. Keeping your dog groomed is very important in keeping them cool and comfortable over the summer. Any dog breeds with hair such as Poodles, Yorkies, and Maltese should be kept with short cuts for the summer. Also, remember to keep an eye on your long-furred friends as this is the time of year that “hot spots” become more prevalent. Make sure their fur stays brushed and unmatted to ensure air can flow through to their skin.

Frozen snacks – Everyone loves an ice cream or popsicle on a steamy day and our canine counterparts are no exception. Ice cubes full of blueberries and strawberries or frozen watermelon chunks are all fantastic frozen treats you can give to your dog.

Staying at home – We all want our dogs to join us as we move about in our day-to-day lives; unfortunately, the summer heat can make this difficult and dangerous. During the summer, your car can heat up to over 100°C in less than an hour. It is best to only take your dog to places where they are welcome in the store with you; otherwise, it is best to leave them at home where it is cool.