The summer can be a very dangerous but fun time for dogs. There are many things to consider as we go into record high temperatures dry air, numerous water activities, and all sorts of other things that can make fun turn into tragedy.

First let’s talk about water. Your dog should always have access to clean water. Know if Ann’s or butts. Unless an veterinarian has told you otherwise. Remember dogs are covered in fur they’re going to be a lot hotter than we are and depending on what breeds and style of hair they have they might overheat even faster than other dogs. It’s not going to hurt to have access to water. There are water bottles designed especially for dogs, collapsible water bowls, and I’ve even heard of dogs who could learn how to drink out of a human water bottle. There is no excuse to deny access to water
Some dogs enjoy swimming. There’s nothing wrong with that I would recommend always having a life jacket or at least someone who’s used to training dogs how to swim. Some dogs dive, swim, and participate in all sorts of water activities just be safe.I’ve heard of dogs having small pools and things like that and there’s nothing wrong with it just make sure they’re always supervised and you’re always being safe. Air on the side of caution so that tragedies are avoided.
Dogs always need water and shade those are the two elements that are essential when you have your dogs out in the sun. Personally I suggest keeping them inside cooltemperatures as much as possible. Make outside time limited especially during the heat of the day. If you want to take them for long walks or even run maybe go early in the morning or late in the evening.
Dogs can suffer heat stroke so be careful. Avoid taking them out during heat advisories and if they absolutely have to go out which they probably will limit outside time during heat advisories to short amount of time. Basically let them go to the bathroom and then take them back in and offer some water.
Never never never leave your dog in a hot car with the windows up. I’ve even heard you really should not leave them in a car with air conditioning running but you would have to consult with a veterinarian about their thoughts on that and I’m sure it would depend on the dogs physical health. I would suggest never leaving your dog in the car alone. If a person is breathing fine and feeling good in the car then a dog could probably be in the car with them. I never leave my dogs in the car alone.in fact don’t leave your dog in the car even with the windows down in the summer. It’s just not safe cars gets super hot. When you do have your dog out and about with you in the summer make sure there’s plenty of water available.
Never leave your dog outside an establishment that does not allow dogs. Such as, a restaurant, store, person‘s home. It is not safe to leave your dog tied up outside of any place. If you are planning to take your dog with you plan your route to include only dog friendly establishments. If you find yourself in an emergency perhaps you can contact the establishment you need to go in and arrange something special or come up with an arrangement. It’s always best if you’re going to have your dog out and about with you for a long period of time to possibly have someone come with you just in case you need to go into somewhere that doesn’t allow dogs.
If you decide to go to a dog park make sure you understand The signs of overheating from your dog and you can leave quickly. I would suggest dog park trips to be early mornings or late afternoons or very short if you’re going during the heat of the day. Again having water close at hand is a must also bring your own water and water bowl communal water situations are not safe or healthy.
Also consider your dogs furConsult with your veterinarian or groomer your dog might need a summer haircut. Also when you are getting your dog trimmed if you do that, talk to your groomer/veterinarian or both about your lifestyle how often you stay outside what your air-conditioning situation in your home is, your dog‘s activities, breed and health. All of those can go into consideration when deciding what sort of summer hairstyle your dog needs. If you have something such as a bee Shawn, poodle, Yorky or something that requires regular grooming you get a more summery haircut to provide some relief from the heat. While, if you have a dog breedwith sensitive skin or thin hair you might need to put T-shirts or avoid heat as much as possible to keep from sunburns
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Most of the time fireworks and dogs do not mix. Most dogs have extreme fear to fireworks. The sounds, the smells the activity. It’s usually just too much. If all possible have your dog inside while fireworks are going off. Maybe you and other family members, or friends can take turns entertaining the dog while others are watching fireworks. Also calming medication special toys or special snuggles might be necessary to help your dog out during this stressful time. Be careful dogs tend to run away when it comes to fireworks . Keep your fence locked and secured. Keep your dog on a leash. Schedule probably breaks before and after firework times. Also it might not be your fireworks that are frightening your dog you have to think about neighbors or anything that your dog could hear that you might not be able to hear. Dogs tend to have really good hearing. Dogs will run away if they’re scared so keep extra safety precautions in mind during these loud noisy times.
Vacations are a big thing in the summer. There’s lots to consider when it comes to dogs and vacations. Number one there are traveling accommodations. Make sure your dog is safe in the car or safe and whatever vehicle they’re traveling in. Take extra safety precautions if your dog is in an unfamiliar area they might be prone to run away or be overstimulated. Make sure you have plenty of leashes and doors in condos and hotel rooms are closed and secured at all times.
Of course in the car there are seatbelts or maybe even putting them in a crate small dogs can even have doggy car seats but make sure they cannot escape from them.
If you’re not taking your dog with you there’s a lot of other things to consider adequate dog sitter options. Whether you’re using someone coming to your house, aboarding facility, or just your dog going to a friend or family members. Make sure they know your dog schedule routine veterinarian special needs food ETC. Of course safety precautions with leashes, fences, harnesses and a Secure way to take your dog out for potty breaks are available. Your dog might behave differently on vacation or at a sitter‘s house make sure the situation is conducive to your dog and their best quality of life. If you are having your dog go to a newestestablishment it’s best to do a trial run or introduce your dog to the situation several times before leaving them. Dogs my exhibit problems when they’re away from their owner so it’s best to be a little patient and make sure that the person watching your dog is being patient.
Summer can be a new time to come up with some new things to do with your dog. New games to play new agility equipment to purchase new hobby such as dog sports, training, or maybe joining some sort of dog club. You and your dog can have a lot of fun in the summer and it’s always a good time to start up something new. Dogs enjoy doing different things. Some dogs would enjoy going to outside patios at restaurants or outside situations where dogs are allowed. Some places have community dog walks. Where people can walk dogs together or community dog events. So there’s all sorts of things that you and your dog can get into this summer.
Paws of Happiness 