There is nothing quite like relaxing on a lounge chair with a cool beverage in the summer sun! The warmer weather also provides wonderful opportunities for your dog to exercise and play in the great outdoors by your side but it requires different levels of care.

Here are safety tips for how to keep your pets happy and healthy in the sweet summertime:

 

 

Your dog loves being outside just as much as you do, and like you they need shade and plenty of hydration.

Some dogs with light-colored or thin coats even need sunscreen. Make sure to use a dog-safe formula, either one that’s specially made for Fido or a regular sunscreen without PABA or zinc oxide. Don’t forget to apply it to the belly if your dog likes to soak up the sun on their back.

 

 

Perhaps the most important summer safety tip is to make sure your dog always has cool, fresh water and a place to get some shade to avoid heatstroke. It is also incredibly important to never leave your dog in the car on a hot day, even with the windows cracked.

 

 

Just like humans, dogs wish those insects would buzz off! From stings to life-threatening illnesses like heartworms or Lyme disease, bugs can be serious business. Prevent ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes from transferring diseases to your pet with recommended medicines every month.

 

 

If your dog happens to get stung, look for the stinger and brush it out of the skin (you can use a credit card) instead of using tweezers to remove it, which can release venom into the wound. Make a paste of baking soda and cold water to soothe the painful area of the sting. If your dog has an allergic reaction or the sting affects his ability to breathe, make sure to get veterinary care immediately.

 

 

From lakes to pools, some dogs love the water; but before your pooch turns into the doggie version of Michael Phelps, make sure to check out the water first!

If the water resembles pea soup, green paint, or thick green cake, it may contain a blue-green algae bloom. This can cause nausea, skin irritation and convulsions, and in some extreme cases can be fatal. Also, if your furry friend prefers boats to bathing, make sure to provide water, shade, and a life vest as an added precaution.

 

 

Summer is a great time to get out and get active with your furry friend, but like children, they need more care when taking on the great outdoors. Make sure to be alert and prepared for the summer heat and activities.

If you’d like more tips to stay safe this summer or have any questions, we would be happy to talk to you; contact us at 701-757-3500!