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Step 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.
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Step 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.
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Step 3
Treat your yard with non-toxic insect repellants to keep away biting flies, fire ants and other insects that bite or sting.
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Step 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.
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Step 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 the ground and if you can't keep it down for a few seconds, chances are it’s too hot for your dog. There are special dog shoes to protect their pads from the hot asphalt, but keep in mind that dogs release sweat from their paws to cool off, so only use shoes for a brief walk during hot weather, otherwise heat stroke could set in.
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Step 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.
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Step 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.
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Step 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. It's best to leave your dog at home in air conditioning when it's hot!












Comments
abbybowden1 said
on 11/20/2008 I love dogs and that is some good tips. But the part with the car it is still not good to take them in the car in less you are not stoping any were and goingt o hike or some thing AND YOU ARE NOT LEAVING THE DOG!!!!
SashaSabbeth said
on 11/13/2008 Thank you so much for this article. I have called police and humane societies many times when I have seen a dog suffering in someone's car. Thank you!!!
Sasha Sabbeth
www.leadershipsoulcoach.com
mammadoodles said
on 8/25/2008 Great article!
ThePicassoKid said
on 7/22/2008 In CA, I think it is now illegal to leave any animal in the car, even if the window is cracked. If someone sees that your animal is distressed in the car, they can break your window and take the animal to the nearest vet. Check your state's laws to be certain.
tassie said
on 7/2/2008 This is a very good article. Nice job!