Summer is officially here! With fun beach days and tranquil walks, it’s important to make sure your dog is well taken care of during the summer months. At Landheim K9, we understand the importance of fun, yet safe summer days with your furry friends. Learn today how your pet may be affected by typical summer weather and how you can combat dangerous conditions while still having fun!
Understand Your Dog
One way many dogs get affected in the summer is by heat exhaustion. In fact, this mainly affects dogs with long hair, short noses, or are older. Some signs to tell if your dog is experiencing heat exhaustion is excessive panting, dehydration, extreme drooling, glazed eyes, and pale gums. If your dog is in a poorly ventilated area, doing strenuous exercise, or is in extreme temperatures, it’s essential that you look out for these signs of heat exhaustion.
If you think your dog is experiencing heat exhaustion, it’s best for you to take them indoors or to a cool, shaded area with increased air flow. It’s best practice to use cool or room temperature water and put it on their ears and paws to help them cool off. Avoid any cold water or ice as that can shock your dog and make matters even worse. Another way to help them find relief is by putting them in front of a fan. Increasing the air circulation around them will allow them to cool off easier.
Another way dogs are poorly affected in the summertime is by getting sunburnt. When your dog is experiencing a sunburn, expect to see symptoms about an hour after sun exposure. If you notice red/pink skin, discomfort, hair loss, flaky and cracked skin, or even curled ear edges, it’s best that you further look into your dog’s health and how to help them find relief.
If you are seeing these symptoms, rest assured! Sunburns can usually be treated at home. If it’s a mild sunburn, it’s best to use cold compresses and aloe vera gel to treat your dog. If you need to take your dog outside, use protection such as protective clothing or sunscreen made for dogs. Avoid using human products, which can be dangerous for dogs and result in an allergic reaction.
If you’re in a situation where your dog has a severe sunburn, it’s important to get them treated by a vet immediately. Typical treatment options from a vet could include pain and anti-inflammatory medications, wound dressings, antibiotics, or even fluid therapy.
No matter the situation, it’s best to look out for your furry friend by looking for symptoms and treating them properly if the situation arises. Allow your dog to be comfortable and happy this summer by taking care of them and taking steps to not only heal them, but also protect them from future hurt.
Discover How To Keep Your Dog Safe
Prevention is the first step in protecting your dog this summer, so we’ve put together a simple list of things you can do to ensure your dog is safe, happy, and healthy these next few months. From playing fetch at the dog park to running on the beach, your dog deserves to have a good time while being protected from any harm. Follow these next few steps to make sure your dog is safe while still experiencing memorable moments.
Ways to make sure your dog is safe this summer:
- Avoid sunlight during peak times: During peak sun times, 10 AM – 4 PM, are the best times to keep your dog out of the sun. With the sun at its strongest, it’s much more likely for your dog to become hurt or exhausted due to extreme UV rays and heat. The best ways to do this are to keep your dog inside, in the shade, or simply covered in sun protection. We also suggest opting for morning and evening walks instead of mid-day playtimes.
- Provide shade: If you’re looking to have a good time with your dog outside, make sure they have access to good shade. This allows your dog to have the option to cool off when they need it. Typically, your dog will be able to know when they need a break, and they’ll be able to choose whether or not they want to use the shade to cool off.
- Use sun protection: Applying a dog-safe sunscreen or dressing your dog in sun-blocking garments before going outside is always a good step to protect them from any skin damage. These options have many benefits like protecting your dog from sun burns and even skin cancer. With these dog-safe tools in your back pocket, we can ensure protection even during the sunniest days!
- Provide fresh water: Along with shade, fresh water is always important in making sure your dog is comfortable in the summer weather. Keeping your dog hydrated is key in protecting them from heat exhaustion and avoiding sun burns. By giving your dog the chance to drink water whenever needed, you’re allowing him/her to take care of their health while still having fun outdoors.
- Check your dog: Regularly checking your dog’s skin and looking for signs of heat exhaustion allows you to be prepared for any situation. Now that you know how to prevent and take care of sun-related issues, you’ll be prepared no matter what is thrown at you this summer!
Give Your Dog a Happy and Healthy Summer Today!
Summertime can be a stressful time for dog owners and Landheim K9 is passionate about making you and your furry friends feel as comfortable as possible. By noticing the signs we mentioned and taking the proper precautions before enjoying summer weather, your dog will have the summer of a lifetime while still staying safe! Call us at (219) 365-8897 or email us at info@landheimk9.com to achieve a happy and healthy summer for your dog today!
