1.       Dehydration:

You should always provide your dog with unlimited access to fresh and cool drinking water both inside and outside during the summer. Ice cubes and frozen chicken broth also encourage your dog to take in more fluids and help keep them cool.

2.       Burned foot pads:

Sidewalks, patios, streets, sand and other surfaces can burn your dogs’ footpads. You should hold your hand on the surface for 30 seconds and if it is too hot for you it is going to be to hot for your dog. Morning and evening walks are best when the temperatures are a little cooler on the ground surface.

3.       Heat stroke:

Heatstroke occurs when your dog is left in a car or in the hot sun with no shade and has no way to cool themselves, muzzling also keeps them from being able to pant properly to help cool them down. You should never leave your pet is a car in the summer not even with the window cracked, they are much better left at home and always provide shade for them outside.

4.       Parasites:

Flies, ticks, mosquitoes, fleas and other parasites are at their peak during the summer time. You should talk with your vet about appropriate protection against these parasites.

5.       Seasonal Allergies:

Fleas, mold, flowers and other allergens are common allergies during the summer. Allergies can cause itching, coughing and scratching for your dog. If you know your dog has a common  allergy problem trying to avoid these allergy triggers is best you could ask your vet if you pet would benefit from a canine anahistime or other medication.

6.       Getting Lost:

Please take care when traveling with your pet in the summer. Dogs get lost very easily in unfamiliar surroundings. Try to keep your pet on a leash at all times when away from home and keep a collar on with contact information.

These summer safety tips apply to all dogs in general, however no one knows your dog better then you do. Don’t be afraid to let your dog run and have fun just please be cautious of the dangers that are possibly nearby before you do so.