Safety Tips for Dogs in Hot Weather

The longer days of summer make it easier to spend time outside with your dog, but the higher temperatures also bring real risks to their safety. Dogs are more likely to get sick from the heat than people are because they don’t have as many sweat glands and instead pant to cool down. 

Heatstroke, thirst, and burned paw pads can all happen in a very short amount of time in hot weather. We’ll go over some essential safety tips for dogs so you and your pup can have a safe and enjoyable summer. 

How to Identify Heatstroke in Dogs

Heatstroke is an emergency that can happen quickly and put your pup in danger. You can save your dog’s life by knowing the signs. Keep an eye out for:

• Heavy sweating or dripping 

• Fast heartbeat 

• Feeling tired or weak 

• Vomiting or diarrhea 

• Gums that are bright red or pale

• Confusion or falling apart

Please move your dog to a cool place right away, give them some water, and call your vet if you notice any of these signs.

Important Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

Make sure they have water 

Water is very important when it’s hot outside. Make sure your dog can always get clean, cool water, whether they are inside or outside. For walks and trips, you might want to bring water bottles or bowls that you can fold up.

Don’t leave your dog in a parked car

The temperature inside a car can rise very quickly, even with the windows cracked, and hit dangerous levels in just a few minutes. Even for a short time, leaving your dog in a stopped car is very dangerous and could be deadly. 

Don’t work out when it’s really hot

For cooler weather, take your dog for walks early in the morning or late at night. When the temperature is hot, don’t do anything too strenuous. Keep an eye out for signs that your dog is getting too hot, and give them lots of breaks in the shade.

Take care of sensitive paw pads

Soil, sand, or hot roads can hurt your dog’s paw pads. Check the ground with your hand before you go outside. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. If you can, walk on grass, and dog boots might be a good idea for extra safety.

Give them shade and air flow

If your dog goes outside, make sure they can get to places with shade and lots of air flow. Do not depend on a doghouse alone, as it can trap heat. For cooler places to rest, you should use trees, tarps, or covered decks.

Use cooling products 

Cooling mats, collars, and bandanas are just a few of the things that are made to keep dogs cool. These can help dogs stay cool on hot days, especially those with thick coats or who tend to get too hot.

Don’t shave your dog 

Brushing your pet regularly gets rid of extra fur and lets air flow to the skin. Don’t shave your dog’s fur too short, though, because their fur naturally protects them from heat and burns.

Watch out for sunburns 

Some dogs, like those with light or thin hair, can get sunburned. If you’re going to be outside with your dog for a long time, put sunscreen that is safe for pets on the nose, ears, and belly.

Risk Factors for Dogs 

Some dogs are more likely to have problems when they’re hot, such as: 

• Puppies and old dogs

• Dogs with flat heads, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers

• Dogs that are too heavy

• Dogs who have problems with their hearts or lungs

Extra care should be taken with these dogs, and you should talk to your vet about any special risks or methods to avoid them.

Making Sure Dogs Are Safe in the Water

A lot of dogs love to swim, but they need to be careful when they’re in the water. Keep these tips in mind for your summer trip: 

• Watch your dog at all times when they’re near lakes, pools, or the ocean.

• Some dogs aren’t good at swimming, so a dog life vest might be a good idea to keep them safe.

• After bathing, give your dog a rinse to get rid of chlorine, salt, or algae.

• Do not let your dog drink water from a pool or lake because it may contain chemicals or germs that are bad for them.

Going on a Summer Trip with Your Dog

If you want to take your dog on a trip this summer:

• Make sure you take breaks often in shady places.

• Always bring a bowl and lots of water.

• Never leave your dog in the car alone.

• Find places to stay that allow pets and emergency medical clinics along your route.

How to Keep Your Dog Busy Inside

It’s safer to keep your dog inside when it’s really hot out. To keep them busy, use:

• Games that give out treats and puzzle toys

• Training lessons inside

• Short amounts of playtime in cool places

Keeping Your Dog Safe in the Summer 

It can be fun to spend time with your dog in the summer, but it’s important to keep them safe when it’s hot outside. You can make sure your pet friend has a happy and healthy season by being alert, knowing the signs of heat stress, and taking steps to keep your dog cool and hydrated. For personalized help, you should always talk to your vet. And remember, it’s better to be safe than to risk your dog’s health.