It finally feels like summer and we love it! It’s a great opportunity to get outside and spend time with our four-legged friends. But, summertime comes with hidden dangers and an increase in accidents and injuries. By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your dog’s safety over the summer…
Water is a Must
Dogs sweat through their hackle, so they lose water this way. The more water they lose, the thicker their blood gets. Our furry friends can lose up to 1litre of water from their hackle so it’s incredibly important that your dog has unrestricted access to plenty of water.
Dogs’ water reserve is only about ¼ of the human water reserve, so even more reason to make sure your dog has enough water to drink. Don’t forget, without enough water, they will get very poorly – especially when it’s warm.
To avoid dehydration, always bring fresh water when you go outside and offer it to your pup at least every thirty minutes. Most cafe’s and shops during the summer will also have a dog bowl full of water or will be happy to help – don’t hesitate to ask if you think your pup needs it.
The amount of water always depends on the
- activity level
- size
- age
- the weather
As a general rule, an average dog needs to drink between 55 to 110 ml. per kg per day. Don’t forget to add a bit more when it’s really hot! Remember, your Pawfit device can give you an accurate representation to just how much exercise your dog has done.
Never Leave Your Dog in the Car
Everyone knows this, and yet some people still do it. Don’t leave your dog in the car. During the summer months, a car left outside in the sun can turn can reach peak heats; even when outdoor temperatures of only 24° Celsius, your car will be about 31° Celsius in less than 10 minutes.
After 30 minutes in the sun, the temperature in your car can easily rise up to 40° Celsius!
It’s not enough to leave the car’s windows open and something to drink for your dog – they will get heat stroke and they will get very poorly. Never leave your dog alone in the car – the worst can and has happened.
Remember that your Pawfit device has a temperature alert on it; it will alarm you if your dog is getting too hot.
Just Because They’re Covered in Fur Doesn’t Mean They Can’t Get Sunburnt
A lot of people don’t realise this, but dogs are just as susceptible to sunburns and skin cancer as humans. Just because they’re covered in fur, doesn’t mean they’re immune to burning.
Some dogs are more susceptible to getting burnt by the sun, while others have natural protection.
White or light-coloured pets tend to have fair skin underneath the fur and a greater potential for sun damage (just like people with blonde hair).
Hairless breeds, or breeds with thin hair, are also at risk for sunburn. All dogs, regardless of hair thickness, have risk areas such as the nose, face, and ears. Their bellies are also quite susceptible to sunburn as it is covered with thin and blonde hair.
The easiest way to ensure that your dog doesn’t get sunburn is to keep them in the shade. If you’re out in the park or on the beach, park yourself near a tree or under an umbrella. Your dog will naturally gravitate towards the shade. Also, make sure you bring water with you for them too!
Best Times for Walkies!
During the summer months, the times to go out with your dog are the same as the times you should and shouldn’t avoid as a human.
Don’t go our for walks in the middle of the day – schedule your walks for either early mornings or later in the evening when it’s nice and cool. If you do have to go for a walk during the day, make sure it’s in a route full of shadows, like the woods.
The normal body temperature in dogs lies between 38 and 39 degrees.
If your dog has a body temperature of 40° degrees or more they’re in the danger zone and it can cause severe health damages, including death.
Fleas & ticks
It’s a fact that fleas and ticks are attracted to your dog. Your pet provides a warm and furry environment for the fleas to have fun in. In the summer, when we all spend more time outside, parasites tend to come out, hungry and looking for a cozy home. And your dog is the perfect host!
Always be aware of symptoms like:
- ear and belly scratching
- loss of appetite
- passing diarrhea
and bring your furry friend directly to the vet if these symptoms should occur.
Pawfit for Every Holiday!
Of course, you want to bring your best friend on holiday with you; whether that be camping or hiking or just going down to the beach. It’s worth investing in a dog tracking device. We’ve spent a lot of time, money and research on trying to make the best tracker for your dog. Our Pawfit devices are perfect for those adventure seeking dogs and will give you peace of mind when it comes to temperature alerts and knowing if they’ve done a bit more exercise than usual (thus needing more water!) Click here to find out more.
FREE DOWNLOADABLE INFOGRAPHIC
Download your free infographic on how to keep your dog safe in the sun, here! And as always, if you have any tips for your furry friends during the warmer months, comment below!
