Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

Summer is a great time to have fun in the sun or take a snooze in the shade, but it’s vital to remember your dog’s health and safety. Summer can be a dangerous season for your dog, especially during the hottest months. Here are some dog summer facts to ensure that your dog has as much fun as you do this summer.

How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer

It is important to not let your dog get dehydrated this summer, so ensure that your dog has access to lots of cold, fresh water at all times of the day and night. Bring cool water for your dog to drink whenever you both play outside. If you’re going to be out for a long time, freeze a bottle of water or bring ice cubes so you may arrive at your destination with cold water. EzyDog has a wide range of portable water bowls such as the Fold-A-Bowl and the Roll-A-Bowl that are great for on the go.

Dogs do not sweat, therefore panting is their only way of cooling off. Trimming your dog’s coat will not make him noticeably cooler, and you should never shave your dog as his coat helps regulate body temperature and protects him from sunburn!

If you keep your dogs outside, make sure they have access to shade, and bear in mind that dogs with darker coats absorb more heat than dogs with lighter coats. One way to keep your dog cool by the water is getting them to wear a EzyDog Dog Rash Shirt. This will protect them from the sun, and can cool them down through evaporation.

The Signs of Dehydration in a Dog

When a dog gets overheated and hasn’t been drinking enough water they can easily become dehydrated. Dehydration in dogs is a significant problem that can result in kidney failure, loss of consciousness, and, in the worst-case scenario, death.

The most prevalent symptom of heat stroke in dogs is excessive panting. Other symptoms may include signs of discomfort such as drooling, reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhea, mental dullness or loss of consciousness, uncoordinated movement, and collapse.

You can do these quick tests at home:

1. Lift the skin on your dog’s back between his shoulders. It should immediately drop back to its natural position.

2. Gently push on your dog’s gums until a light spot appears. When you remove your finger, the regular colour should return immediately. The gums should also be smooth and moist.

If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Your dog’s entire body is considerably closer to the ground than yours so they absorb more surface heat.

The beach is a good idea as they can go for a swim, but remember sea water is not fresh drinking water and can increase the risk of dehydration. Always bring or have access to fresh water when visiting the beach. It’s a good idea to offer them a drink before they go in the water.

If it is a hot day outside it is best to take your dog for a stroll on the grass or soil, where it’ll be cooler. Is 26 degrees too hot to walk a dog? Any Temperatures above 26 degrees are dangerous to be walking your dog in and you must never leave your dog alone in a car. This, according to many veterinarians, is the most prevalent cause of heat exhaustion.

Dog Summer Facts

A boat trip on the lake or a day trip to the beach with your best friend might be a lovely way to celebrate summer. You may have just bought a stand up paddle board or kayak that needs a front seat companion. We must ensure that our dogs are always safe.

Always keep an eye on your dog when he or she is swimming; dogs, like children, require constant supervision.

Does my Dog need to Wear a Life Jacket?

Your dog may be an excellent swimmer, but are you certain that they would know what to do in the event of a water emergency? If your dog enjoys swimming, he will most likely not stop until he is completely exhausted. A life jacket can keep your dog safe while also allowing pups that are new to swimming to build confidence and have more fun in the water.

EzyDog has a range of Flotation Devices that have been carefully created for function, safety, and comfort, and are available in sizes ranging from 4XS to XL to accommodate all shapes and sizes of dogs.

Please note: All advice is general in nature and does not consider your dog’s individual situation. Here at EzyDog, we believe the right equipment can really make a difference, but always recommend getting health advice tailored to your dog via an accredited dog health professional