Time for the sunscreen. 5 top tips for summer
Summer’s nearly here, and that means there are some important things to think about when it comes to your pooch.
Warm weather can be dangerous for our dogs. It’s hard for dogs to keep cool when the sun is beating down, and that’s because animals don’t sweat like people do.
You probably knew that dogs cool themselves through panting, but did you know that they sweat through their paws too? When there is only hot air for a dog to breathe, it’s a lot harder for that dog to keep cool.
Read on to learn some important summer safety tips for dogs.
- Never, ever, EVER leave your pet in a hot car. It can take minutes – yes, MINUTES –for a dog to develop heat stroke and suffocate in a car. Most people don’t realize how hot it gets in parked cars. Your best bet is to leave your pet home on warm days. If you’re driving around with your dog in the car, bring water and a water dish and take your pet with you when you leave the car.
- Keep the paws in mind. When the sun is cooking, surfaces like footpaths ,concrete or metal can get really hot! Try to keep your pet off off hot concrete when walking; not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating. rule of thumb, if the footpath is too hot for you, its too hot for them.
- Water and shade. Do your best to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable when you’re out and about. If you and your pet are out in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure there’s plenty of water available to avoid dehydration. Also, get your pet into the shade as much as possible. Having access to a patio, or even a trampoline. If you don't have these but have an outside washing line, try using a shade cloth over that when away from the house.
- Haircuts. If you have a pet with a thick coat, consider a haircut! (yes, pets can get sunburns too!) and also keep your pet cool. If your pet does get sunburnt or you enjoy beach walks try out our Bark Butter Balm.
- Stay safe at barbecues. Backyard barbecues are a lot of fun, but the food and drinks offered can be bad for pets. Keep your pets away from alcohol and foods like grapes,onions, and chocolate.
Stay safe this summer and enjoy it with your furry friends.
