Summers are approaching, it is the time for our furry companions when they also require to adapt to the change of summer waves. The heat not only hampers their body temperature but also challenges them mentally. It is very important to understand the needs of your pet according to its breed, origin, location, and body fur.
If it is your pet’s first summer, then you need to ensure that they are happily adapting to this change. As due to hot weather many animals tend to get feel dehydrated, anxious, and ill.
As a pet parent, it is your duty to make sure that your pet doesn’t fall sick. You have to understand that our little companions cannot express their needs to us. It is a mandatory task for us to be prepared for any kind of change they have to go through and provide them with the best environment.
In this blog, we are going to ensure that all your necessary points are covered so that your Dog is ready to enjoy the summer happily!
Why is Hydrating Your Dog Crucial in Summer?
Water and hydration are essential for dogs all year round, but during the hot summer months, it becomes even more critical to ensure that your furry friend has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Here are a few reasons why hydration is so important for your pup during summer:
Preventing Dehydration
Just like humans, dogs can become dehydrated when they lose more fluids than they take in. Dehydration can cause a range of health problems, including lethargy, dry nose and mouth, sunken eyes, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening.
Regulating Body Temperature
Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting, which causes them to lose moisture through their breath. In order to prevent overheating, your dog needs to be able to replenish that lost moisture by drinking plenty of water.
Supporting Digestive Function
Water is also crucial for supporting healthy digestive function in dogs. Without enough water, your dog’s digestive system can become backed up, leading to constipation and other digestive issues.
To ensure that your pup stays hydrated during summer, it’s important to provide them with access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Here are a few tips for ensuring that your dog stays well-hydrated:
Keep Water Bowls Full
Make sure that your dog has access to a full bowl of water at all times, and check it frequently to make sure that it hasn’t become dirty or stagnant. We have explained in detail which bowl is best for your pet and what points to keep in mind.
Bring Water on Walks
If you’re going on a walk or hike with your dog, be sure to bring water along with you. Portable water bottles and collapsible water bowls are great options for on-the-go hydration.
Provide Frozen Treats
On particularly hot days, consider providing your dog with frozen treats, such as ice cubes or frozen dog treats. These can help to keep your pup cool while also providing them with extra hydration.
Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior
Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior to make sure that they’re drinking enough water. If you notice that your pup seems lethargic or is panting excessively, it may be dehydrated and in need of more water.
By taking steps to ensure that your dog stays well-hydrated during summer, you can help to keep them healthy, happy, and safe.
Tips to Practice in Summer While Parenting Your Dog
Summer for Dogs Should B Cool and Breezy
Dogs enjoy cool breezy fans and cooling vents as much as we do. Oh yes! Whenever the temperature is too much for you, and you feel like it’s actually hot. Don’t avoid your pet, they feel way much more heated up compared to us.
Oh, that fur! So ensure you have managed enough cool space for your buddy and it’s a comfortable place for them.
Protecting Your Dog from Pests and Parasites
Ticks, fleas, and worms are common challenges during summer. Make sure to keep a regular check on your pet. Timely checkups with a vet will also be highly beneficial and make sure that your pet is healthy and way safe from any germs.
Switch Your Dog’s Feeding Time
It’s already 38 degrees out there, who like to eat at such a temperature? Certainly not our dogs. So this is a vet-approved tip to feed your dogs during mornings or evenings.
Do not feed them when the temperature is at max during the noon and afternoons. It gets extremely difficult to enjoy the meal. Many pet owners keep their pets outside their homes in the open areas. The heat wave is enough tormenting so it’s very difficult to eat during such a time.
Cold is Gold During the Summer
The weather is enough hot; dogs don’t need another layer to it by adding on a plate of hot meals. Make sure to feed cold meals to your pets during the summertime. It’s easy to eat, soothing for dogs, and also helps in digestion.
If you’ve been noticing that your dog has suddenly stopped enjoying their meal due to the change in the weather, then you also need to change the temperature.
Liquid and Juicy Meals – Best for Summer
According to veterinarians, it is important to feed your pet liquid meals instead of solids. The reason is – solid meals are difficult to eat and takes longer time for the pet. Already due to hot weather, our pet has to deal with dehydration. So, not only liquid meals such as porridge, mashed vegetables, and meat soaked in stock are easy to eat but also provide enough hydration.
The big NO
Avoid feeding your dear pets milk, salt, or sugar. Keep the meals simple and raw. Steamed so that it is easy to chew and digest. Salt and sugar can spike up the dehydration level in pets and trigger allergies too.
Change Your Pet’s Summer Look
As the new weather approaches, it demands new changes. You can start by changing your pet’s look. How? Trim their long-grown winter hair.
Trimming dog hair is not just for changing their look but also soothing them. Hair trims help air to seep into their skin much more easily. And keep your pet’s body temperature normal, and tolerant to heat.
Pro tip: A hair trims every 15 days for long hair dog is not a bad idea!
Can Sunrays Be Harmful to My Dog?
As per a recent study, it is evident that sun radiation is harmful to us. This is not just applicable to humans but also to animals. Extreme hot climates can have severe impacts on your pets. This scenario is very likely to take place if your pet is from a colder climate origin.
For example, breeds like Siberian Husky, Chow Chow, Bulldog, Himalayan Sheepdog, and much more.
Although even if your pet is not from a colder region of the planet it is still likely to get struck by the heat.
Tips for keeping your dog sun-safe
Keeping your dog out of the sun during the summer months is essential for preventing heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Here are some tips for keeping your dog cool and out of the sun:
Shade is soothing for our pets
Make sure your dog has access to plenty of shade throughout the day. This can include setting up a canopy or umbrella in your yard or providing your dog with access to a covered porch or patio.
“My dog keeps switching between sunny spots and shady spots throughout the day during winter. Pets know how to keep their body temperature normal.”
A little bit of fashion, a bit of safety – Sun Hats
Sun hats for dogs are becoming more popular and can be a great way to protect your pup’s face from the sun’s harmful rays. Look for hats made from breathable materials that won’t overheat your dog. And don’t we find cute hats on dogs’ heads extremely adorable?
Limit Outdoor Activity
During the hottest parts of the day, limit your dog’s time outside. Plan walks and outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
Consider Cooling Vests
Cooling vests are designed to keep your dog’s body temperature down by using a cooling mechanism, such as water-activated gel or evaporative cooling. These can be a great option for dogs that spend a lot of time outside during the summer months.
In addition to these tips, it’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, lethargy, and vomiting. If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately and offer them water. You should also seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Now let us understand what exactly are the repercussions of sunburn or heatstroke:
Sunburn and heatstroke can be serious issues for dogs during the summer months. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of these conditions and know what to do if your dog shows symptoms.
Some common signs of sunburn and heatstroke in dogs:
Signs of Sunburn in Dogs:
- Red or pink skin
- Swelling or inflammation
- Itching or discomfort
- Dry or flaky skin
- Blisters or scabs
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Weakness or lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rapid heartbeat or breathing
- Collapse or seizures
If your dog is showing signs of sunburn or heatstroke, it’s important to take action immediately.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Move your dog to a cool, shaded area and offer them water to drink.
- Use cool water or wet towels to bring down your dog’s body temperature.
- Monitor your dog’s behavior and symptoms closely.
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital if your dog’s symptoms don’t improve or if they’re experiencing severe symptoms, such as seizures or loss of consciousness.
Conclusion
If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your furry friend healthy and happy during the warmer months. Whether it’s making sure they stay hydrated, protecting them from the sun, or keeping their paws safe on hot pavement, there are plenty of things you can do to help your dog enjoy the summer to the fullest.
So, if you have any tips or advice for summer dog maintenance, please share them in the comments section! Your fellow dog owners will appreciate any insight you can provide. And don’t be shy – no tip is too small! Even if you think it’s something everyone already knows, there might be someone out there who hasn’t heard it yet.
Let’s work together to make sure our furry friends have a happy and healthy summer season!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How can I keep my dog cool during hot summer days?
You can keep your dog cool by providing plenty of fresh water, creating shaded areas, using a cooling mat, and avoiding exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Can dogs get sunburned?
Yes, dogs can get sunburned, especially in areas with little or no hair. To protect your dog from the sun, you can provide shaded areas for them to rest in.
Q: How can I prevent my dog from getting dehydrated during summer?
You can prevent your dog from getting dehydrated by providing plenty of fresh water, bringing a portable water bowl when you go out, and avoiding exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Is it safe to take my dog for a walk on hot pavement?
Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws, so it’s best to avoid walking them on hot pavement during the hottest part of the day. You can also use booties or walk them on grassy areas instead.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my dog has heatstroke?
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, you should immediately move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area, offer water, and contact your veterinarian. Heatstroke can be life-threatening, so it’s important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
