How to Keep a Dog Safe During Summer

Summer--the season of fun in the sun for humans--and canines too! And the fun doesn’t have to stop--there are various ways to get Fido safely through--those “dog days” of summer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Make sure your dog’s collar with an up-to-date ID and rabies tag remains on at all times in case he accidentally escapes from the yard or runs out of the house. The chances of this occuring are more likely during warm weather when doors open and shut more and your dog spends more time outside. You might also consider a microchip for added insurance if he gets lost.
2. Apply flea/tick preventative to your dog. The kind that is recommended by vets is applied to one spot on the skin between the shoulder blades about every 28 days.
3. Treat your yard with non-toxic insect repellants to keep away biting flies, fire ants and other insects that bite or sting.
4. Clipping a long-haired dog’s coat shorter for summer helps them to stay cooler, but remember not to clip the hair too short or shave the dog. The coat protects from sunburn and is an insulator. Professional groomers know the way it should be done. Also, it’s best to comb or brush a longer haired dog regularly to remove excess hair which will help the skin to breathe better and the coat to trap less heat.
5. Save summer walks for early morning or after the sun goes down if the asphalt gets too hot in the afternoon. A good way to check is to place your hand or bare foot on it and if you can't keep it down for a few seconds, chances are it’s too hot for your dog.
6. If you take your dog on a walk or hike, bring along a portable water bottle and tray. Pet stores sell these with a string attached to drape over your shoulder, or you can keep some in your backpack or strap a light doggie backpack to your pooch.
7. Keep your dog away from pools or a watchful eye when near one, since they have been known to accidentally run in. They might figure out how to dog paddle, but getting out is a whole ‘nother story. Also, dogs tend to take dips in the pool--with their tongue. Most pools are filled with chemicals.
8. If you need to take your dog along on a car errand, do it in the early morning or after the sun goes down. Always make sure the windows are open enough for sufficient ventilation because heat stroke can set in within minutes. Also keep in mind that dogs get stolen out of cars, so if you can't roll the windows down to a safe level--keep the car running with the doors locked and the air conditioning on. Or leave your dog at home!

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a spill-proof or elevated water bowl to ensure that your dog doesn’t knock it over while you’re gone, especially if she's outside in hot weather. Also, be sure to keep it in the shade. You can also add a few ice cubes to the water bowl that will melt during your absence and keep the water colder.
• A kiddie pool can be a nice clean place for your dog to cool off rather than rolling around in the dirt.
• Apply sunscreen to your dog's ear tips, bridge of the nose and skin around the lips if necessary. Those with light-colored noses and fur are especially vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.
• Dog houses provide relief from the sun, but not always from the heat. Make sure your dog is protected from both.
• Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease in dogs. Check with your veterinarian about heartworm preventative which is normally administered orally every month, once the dog tests negative for heartworms.
• Certain plants, plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be toxic or even fatal if ingested. Same for citronella candles, oils and lighter fluid. Lighter fluid can also be harmful if inhaled, as well as irritate your dog's skin.