With summer fast approaching, it’s important to consider the essential steps you need to take as a dog owner to keep your four-legged friend safe as the weather warms up.
Of course, we want to make the most of those sunny days, especially as they can be few and far between. But it’s important to keep an eye on your pooch as you and they soak up the sun – thick fur might serve them well in the winter, but you don’t want to risk them overheating.
If you’re looking to prep for those summer months, then be sure to follow the Sandymount steps for summer safety.
1. Ensure Access to Plenty of Water
Making sure your dog has access to clean, fresh water is of course important all year round, but it is particularly essential in the summer as temperatures start to creep up.
This is easy enough to remember while you’re at home. But if you take your dog with you when you’re out and about, then you should make sure that you also bring a bottle of water and a bowl with you.
2. Keep On Top of Flea Treatments
Fleas can cause you and your pooch problems all year, but they tend to peak in those warm summer months.
Preventing parasites and pests need not cause you problems, however. By regularly applying flea treatment, you’ll help to prevent your pet scratching their skin raw.
We know that it can be easy to forget this piece of pet care, but luckily, with our pet healthcare plans, your monthly flea and worm treatment is included in the price.
3. Never Leave Them in the Car
This might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many pet owners don’t make this consideration before taking their dogs on car journeys.
Dogs should never be left alone in hot cars, even if a short time. Cars heat up very quickly, and even in the shade the temperature of the car can far exceed the outside temperature.
It can take as little as fifteen minutes for your dog to suffer from heatstroke.
Learn the signs of heatstroke in dogs, as this problem isn’t exclusive to dogs that have been left in cars; if you’re worried about your dog, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
4. Test the Heat of the Pavements
Ideally, during those hot summer days, you want to plan your walks to fit the cooler hours. However, we appreciate that this might not be possible every day.
Whatever time you decide to take your dog for a walk, you should perform the hot pavement test – preferably before you get their lead out and they get excited.
Pick a sunny part of the pavement outside your hand and press the back of your hand against it for seven seconds. If it feels too painful, then the pavement is too hot for your pooch’s paws.
5. Protect Them from Sunburn
Fur coats can be misleading, and many dog owners don’t realise that their dog can suffer sunburn, just like a human’s can.
Ears and noses are the primary problem areas, but luckily there are pet friendly sun lotions that can help prevent them burning.
The next time you visit us with your pooch, be sure to ask a member of our team for more information on sun safety.