"Protection from the heat, parasites, car safety, and sterilizing your dog are some of the issues that, while important year-round, need extra attention during the summer months…” said Nancy Peterson, issues specialist for the companion animals division of The Humane Society of the United States(HSUS)."
As the summer sets in, dogs are more susceptible to the summer heat than we are. They have to wear a fur coat all year around. Whereas, we can sweat to cool ourselves down, our pups sweat only through glands on the nose and paws and try to release heat by panting.
To keep your dog is safe in the summer and pay attention to 10 Summer Safety Lessons (& Tips) For Your Dog:
1. Adjust the exercise routine
Don’t let your dog walk as far or as fast when it’s hot outside. You can make a walk with your dog at the early summer morning and evening. Reduce the more exercises everyday and Keep in mind that asphalt can get hot enough to burn your dogs' paws. If your dog stays in the cool room equipped with air conditioner for a long time, don’t let your dog out immediately, otherwise, your dog will catch a cold.
2. Limit Time outdoors
Dogs can only release body heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Because they have a harder time cooling down than humans, they can easily overheat and are especially susceptible to heatstroke because they have a harder time panting. I suggest you the time of outdoors is no more than 1 hours every day. Don’t play with your dog for a long time, saving your dog’s energy is very important, Overtime exercises will cause your dog heat stroke and dehydration.
3. Be careful the sun burn
Your dog can get sunburned if they're out in the sun too long. Your lovely pup with light-colored noses and fur are especially susceptible. Don’t cut your dog coat shorten, although you maybe think it will make your dog cool. If you plan to be outside for a while, put a natural, non-toxic sunscreen on your pet (on his nose, ears, and top of head, especially). Remember don’t use the sunscreen for humans for your dog. Dog store can sell sunscreens formulated especially for dogs.
4. Avoid the danger of cars
Don’t leave your dog in a parked car. You will kill your dog if you leave your dog in a parked car. Even with the window cracked, temperature can rise up to 30 degrees in the space of a few minutes. If your dog is near or in the back of the parked car, it is very dangerous too. An accident could cause an injury to your dog.
5. Be careful pools and water
Not all dogs can swim, or get out of a pool if they fall in. Dogs should not have free access to pool areas; they should use them only when supervised. If you want take your dog on boat, you may want to get a doggy life preserver to help keep your dog afloat.
6. Don’t take a bath for your dog everyday
Some guys bath their dog everyday in order to keep the dog cooler in summer. It is no good to your dog’s health because that will dry out the skin, deplete healthy oils from the coat and skin, and lead to scratching and irritation. Frequency is largely dependent on the breed and activities of the dog. Dogs who spend a lot of time outside or engage in outdoor activities that expose them to dirt, bugs and/or debris typically require more bathing, perhaps every 6 weeks or more frequently.
7. Grooming your dog every day
You can groom your dog every day, not bathing. Brush your dog thoroughly every day. This helps keep your dog hair in good condition by removing dirt, spreading the natural oils throughout the coat, preventing tangles from forming and keeping the skin clean and free from irritation.
8. Clean your dog teeth and face frequently
Your dog can get cavities and develop periodontal disease, so the teeth should be cleaned with dog toothpaste at least twice per week especially in summer. It is best to use a small toothbrush that has soft bristles. Cleanings performed by a veterinarian may also be required
9. Fresh dog food and more water
Raise your dog by fresh food everyday. In summer the dog food is easily bad, so it is better to buy dry dog food in bulk, and don’t feed your dog too much every time. Bad dog food will cause a lot of illnesses. If you find your dog lethargy, disorientation, weakness, weight loss, you should find you dog vet immediately. And in summer, you should supply your dog more fresh water to avoid the dog dehydration.
10.Protect your dog from fleas and ticks
Summer is primetime for such parasites, but many flea and tick control products contain dangerous pesticides. Option for a natural flea and tick repellant is effective and safe for your dog.
Finally, hope your dog and you are both safe in the summer time!