How to Care for Your Outdoor Dog During Summer Months

German Shepherd Dog

Hot weather can be very uncomfortable for pets. Dogs pant to release heat but you need to take extra steps to help keep your pet cool in hot weather. Dogs that are kept outside during the summer months need proper care and attention to ensure their good health. Dogs that are left out in the blazing sun on very hot days can become seriously ill or even die. Your dog depends on you for proper care. Don't let him down. Follow these steps to keep him cool and healthy.

Instructions

How to Care for Your Outdoor Dog During the Summer

1. Make sure your dog always has plenty of water. Check periodically throughout the day to make sure your dog hasn't knocked over his water bowl. Refill the water bowl frequently with fresh water. Dogs can suffer from dehydration just as well as people so it is vitally important that your dog always has a fresh supply of water available.

2. Give him some shade. Make sure your dog has cover from the hot sun such as a large tree, porch or dog house. Dogs can suffer from heatstroke if kept in an area where the blazing sun is beating down on him. Make sure he has adequate shelter to provide him from the sun. If the dog is chained make sure that he has enough length to allow him to move to a cooler area away from the sun.

3. Walk your dog in the evening when it is cooler rather than in the afternoon when the sun is at its hottest. An evening walk will be more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and your dog.

4. Skip the road trip. If you're going to take your dog for a ride to the store or elsewhere then leave him in the car, don't take him at all. Your dog will be better off at home. Even a few minutes in a hot car can sometimes be disastrous to your dog's health. Dogs that are prone to motion sickness may easily get sick by riding in a car on a hot day.

5. Bring him indoors. Give your dog a break and bring him in the house. Let your pet bask in air conditioned comfort too. Even if you don't want to bring your dog into the house you might consider letting him relax in the basement, garage or on a screened porch where it is cooler and he is out of the sun during the hottest part of the day.