The long, warm days of summer can often bring changes to your and your dog’s routine and activity levels, often resulting in more time spent outdoors or going on summertime adventures together. Before the season gets into full swing, it can be important to consider whether your pup is summer-ready, so they stay comfortable and happy.
In this post, we create a summer prep checklist for your dog, including:
GROOMING: MAINTAIN YOUR DOG’S COAT & NAILS
You may think shaving your dog’s coat will help them stay cool, but doing so could make them more susceptible to overheating. For many breeds, the coat provides insulation against heat and sunlight, helping pups stay cool in hot weather. Instead, focus on regular brushing to prevent matting, as this can allow cool air to flow freely through their fur and keep moisture from getting trapped.
Additionally, keeping your dog’s nails clipped can help make outdoor activities during the summer much more comfortable, especially if you’re planning to hike or play outside, as long nails can be prone to breakage during more active moments.
HYDRATION: PRIORITIZE KEEPING YOUR DOG HYDRATED
Hydration is important for your dog year-round, but especially in the summer. Because dogs pant to regulate their body temperature, it can cause moisture loss through evaporation. During hot weather or when there’s increased activity, it can be easier for dogs to become dehydrated if they do not drink enough water.
To get your pup summer-ready, keep their water bowl clean and filled throughout the day so they can take breaks whenever they need to. Additionally, consider bringing a portable water bowl on walks or outings to encourage regular water breaks.
You could also prep some frozen dog treats this summer to keep them cool and refreshed, such as frozen water-rich fruit like seedless watermelon.
ENVIRONMENT: CREATE AREAS FOR YOUR DOG TO COOL DOWN
During heatwaves or excessively hot summer days, it’s important to limit your dog’s time outdoors. However, on those lovely sunny days when you both enjoy being outside, it’s essential to create areas where your dog can cool down as needed. If you have a backyard, designate a shaded area as your dog’s cool-down spot. Additionally, consider purchasing cooling mats, which can be especially great if you plan to be outdoors or on the go.
SAFETY: CHECK FOR HOT PAVEMENT
To get your dog summer-ready, take some preventive steps to keep them comfortable and safe, including checking the pavement for excessive heat. A pup’s paw pads are sensitive, so spending time outside on hot pavement, such as on their daily walks, can be extremely uncomfortable.
One of the best ways to check is to press your hand against any pavement your dog will be on, such as your driveway or the sidewalk/road, for around five to ten seconds. If it becomes too hot for your hand to tolerate, it’s going to be too hot for your pup.
If you find it is too hot, a great way to prep for this is to change when and where you walk. Try early-morning or late-evening walks when the sun isn’t scorching and aim to walk on grassy areas rather than exposed concrete.
HEALTH: TAKE A TRIP TO YOUR DOG’S VET
A visit to the vet can be a great way to help prepare your dog for the summer months. A wellness exam can allow your vet to assess your pup’s overall health and identify any concerns that could become more challenging during warmer weather.
Your vet can also make sure your dog is up to date on their vaccinations and discuss seasonal topics like flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, which are important to understand and recognize, especially if you’re planning to spend time outdoors.
WELLNESS: SCHEDULE A VISIT TO DOGGY DAYCARE THIS SUMMER
Does your dog have a wellness routine? Summer is a great time to start one! Regular dog daycare at Dogtopia offers opportunities for exercise, enrichment, supervised play, learning, and socialization with like-minded friends, all in a safe indoor environment. Regardless of the weather outside, our spacious indoor playrooms maintain a perfect temperature thanks to our climate-controlled facilities.
If you want to make sure your pup stays active this season without the risk of overheating, contact your local Dogtopia to get started or to book a visit.