As a responsible dog owner, you need to prepare your pet for summer weather and the possible hazards that may be at risk. Keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy during summer with more tips and steps than just protecting your pet from overheating. Here are a few things to keep in mind to help your dog enjoy a safe summer.

1. DO Keep Your Dog Well-Hydrated

During the sweltering dog days of summer, your pet will most likely spend more time outdoors. As you and your canine companion enjoy outdoor summer activities, you need to ensure your pet has access to clean, fresh water. Keep Fido well hydrated, as the summer heat may cause dehydration.

Also, be aware of the signs of dehydration in a dog. Signs may include wrinkled or loose skin, dry gums, panting, and lack of appetite. If your pet appears to be dehydrated, seek emergency veterinary care at once.

2. DON'T Leave Your Dog in the Car When It's Warm Outside

Even if you are only going to be gone for a short period of time, leaving your dog in a car during warm weather may prove to be a fatal mistake. Keep in mind that temperatures inside a vehicle may rise to dangerous levels in a short period of time. Heatstroke is a possibility for any dog left in a car during warm weather. Senior dogs and breeds with short snouts are particularly at risk.

3. DO Keep Your Lawn Well-Trimmed

During the summer weather, insects such as fleas, ticks, and wasps tend to be more prevalent. Some of these harmful insects may be lurking in tall grass. Keep your yard well-trimmed so your pet will not be subject to insect bites or become a suitable host for fleas and ticks. You should also make sure to trim tall shrubs and bushes around your home.

4. DON'T Leave an Unscreened Window Open

During the warm summer months, you may be tempted to open the windows for ventilation. If you do so, always keep a secure screen in place. An unscreened open window can be extremely dangerous for your pet. Your pet may jump or fall out of the window and become seriously injured.

5. DO Groom Your Dog for Summer Weather

While you should keep your dog well-groomed year-round, you should be especially mindful of grooming during the warm summer months. Long-haired dogs may overheat more easily during warm weather, so keep the coat trimmed for summer. If your dog has a thick coat, you should take your dog into the groomer to trim the excess fur just before the hot weather settles in.

6. DON'T Leave Your Dog Unsupervised Near Open Water

During the hot summer months, you may be tempted to swim at the lake with your canine companion. If you take your dog to the lake, don't leave him or her unsupervised for any period of time. Even if your dog is an established swimmer, dangers may exist. To be extra safe, consider putting a life jacket or vest on your dog.

7. DO Be Aware That Hot Asphalt May Harm Paws

During the summer months, your dog may enjoy long walks outdoors. But try to limit your pet's time on sidewalks or asphalt. The asphalt or ground surface may become uncomfortably hot during summer, and the heat from the asphalt may irritate your dog's paws.

If possible, take your dog for walks when the sun goes down or on a cloudy day. If you must walk your dog during a sunny day, try to stay on the grass and off the pavement.

For pet health concerns and summer safety tips, consult your veterinarian. Also contact us at Eli's Friends for any grooming, training, or boarding needs this summer.