Summertime brings fun and play for everyone. However, for our furry friends, the summer heat and humidity can be bothersome and even dangerous. Keeping your pup cool not only keeps them comfortable during those months but also keeps them safe from heatstroke. If you’re looking for tips to keep your fido cool and comfortable this summer, look no further! Here are the best tips for spending the summer months with your dog.

Keep Them Hydrated

Year-round, keeping your furry friend hydrated is important. During the summer months, it is critical. Our canine companions can easily get overheated, so provide frequent cool, fresh water at regular intervals. A helpful tip is to place multiple bowls throughout the house to remind your pup to stay hydrated. If you’re out and about with your dog, bring a collapsible water bowl or bottle to prevent overheating.

Walk Your Pup During Cool Times of Day

It is important for our pooches to get daily exercise. When the weather gets warmer, timing your walks to the temperature is the difference between a happy pup and an overheated one. Walking and other outdoor activities should take place in the early morning or the evening, while the sun is setting. Midday walks are dangerous for your furry friend, not only because of heatstroke but also because of the pavement. When the temperature rises, the pavement heats up. The general rule of thumb is that if the sidewalk is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pup’s paws. Avoid overheating and paw burns by sticking to walks in the morning and evening!

Prioritize Rest

Just like us, many dogs like to rest. Giving your four-legged friend plenty of downtime is important during the hotter months because heat can wear them out quickly.

Play in Water

One of the best parts of summertime is going to water parks and pools. Luckily, your pup can participate too! A paddling pool in your backyard gives your furry friend a safe slice of summertime fun. Refreshing and cooling, paddling pools are the perfect way to give your dog time outside safely. Cooling mats and ice packs can also help keep your dog comfortable in warmer climates. Be sure to always monitor your dog, as overexcitement can cause overheating.

Avoid Hot Cars

Leaving your dog in the car for prolonged periods of time is always dangerous. However, during hot months, it is careless. Cars can become excessively hot very quickly in hot temperatures. It is advised to never leave your dog alone in the car, even for a moment. If you are planning a road trip with your pup, ensure that the AC is on and that they have access to water. Rolling down the windows slightly while driving can help circulate air in the car for your fido.

Watch Out for Heatstroke

Heatstroke occurs when our furry friends get overheated and can progress quickly. For pooches, this typically occurs due to overexertion or periods in heat. Some of the common signs of heatstroke include, but are not limited to:

• Heavy panting, even while not exercising
• Tiredness
• Dribbling
• Confusion
• Collapsing
• Vomiting

If you think your dog has heatstroke, move them to a cool place and rub cold water over their coat. If possible, try to give them a little bit of water. Then, take them to the vet immediately.

It is completely possible for our furry friends to enjoy the summer months as much as we do! Keeping them cool, comfortable, and hydrated is the first step in safely getting through the hotter months. Take care of yourself and your pup, and you will have a fun summer.