I

The Dog Days of Summer

All winter we long for the warmth of the summer sun. We have visions of sandals and beach towels. That first 80 degree day finds us heading out and enjoying the beautiful summer air.

Our constant companion curled up inside all season, now enjoys moments in the sun by our side. And before we run off to the beach we go down our checklist:

Beach Towel? Check. Sunglasses? Check. Sun Screen? Check. Hat? Check. Water? Check.

Well just like the sunscreen that protects your skin and the water that keeps you hydrated, you need to plan so that your dog stays cool in the heat of the sun.

Better.TV provides some very helpful tips on how to keep your dog cool in the heat

Barbara Baugnon of the Oregon Humane Society spoke with Better.TV about keeping your pet safe in the heat of the sun. First and foremost is to think things through the way you would for yourself.
Where is your pet going to spend most of his time? If your answer is the car, then the best option might be to leave him in the comforts of home.

If you simply must take your pet with you on a trip where they are going to spend most of their time in the car, then it might be worth noting that like their humans, dogs can be affected by heat exhaustion.
As a matter of fact, dogs can die from heat exhaustion in just 20 minutes. Even in 75 degree weather with the windows rolled down. Never leave your pet in a car unattended.
If you think your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, immediately cover him with cold blankets (cold wet towels will suffice) and call your vet.
Heat exhaustion can quickly kill your dog, so timing is of the essence.

Summer Safety Close to Home

Safety precautions aren’t just limited to trips in the car. There are dangers around your home that you should be aware of.

Case in point, yard and garden products.  Flowers bloom and your grass stays green in part because of the fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides you use to feed them and keep critters at bay.

But these same products can be poisonous to your dog.

If you choose to use these products on your lawn, then keep them in an area where your pet cannot access them.There are pet safe alternatives, you can find them online or ask your favorite nurseries for advice.
If you do choose to keep your home free of these harmful chemicals, remember that your neighbors and local park areas might not. Be aware of any signs notifying of pesticide use and keep your dog away from grasses or plants that have been treated. The same way you would do with young children.

Heat Wave

If it’s hot outside for you then it’s hotter for your dog. And if his home is in your yard then be sure you have provided adequate shelter and water. Both are mandatory by law in all 50 states.
Remember if you wouldn’t want to be outside, then your dog certainly doesn’t want to be either. Take your dog inside on hot days even if you’re limiting the dog to a specific area of the house and make sure he stays cool.

Other quick tips:

• Anti-Freeze is not only poisonous to us, it’s poisonous to our pets. If your car is leaking in anti-freeze on your driveway, be sure to clean it before allowing your dog outside. Dogs are attracted to the sweet taste and it can cause severe stomach upset and in some cases, death.

• Do you want to go for a nice run at noon on a 90 degree day in your winter coat? My guess is not. And neither will your dog. If you are that hardcore of an exerciser and you usually take your dog, take water for your dog the way you do yourself otherwise, leave him at home.

• While short haircuts can keep your pet cool, they also expose his skin and some breeds are not recommended for short cuts. Before going ahead and shaving it off, have a conversation with your vet. If your vet gives the thumbs up to the cut, then ask about sunscreen. Dogs with light skin around their noses are more prone to sunburn than those with dark noses but all pets can burn through their fur.

• Don’t assume that your dog can paddle! Not all dogs can swim. If you have a pool, vets generally recommend keeping your dog away from it. And if your dog is accompanying you on a boat trip, he needs a life vest just the way you do! You can find them at your local pet supply store.

Summer safety is about thinking ahead. Treat your dog the way you would yourself and both of you will be smiling all summer long!