This is a sponsored guest post.
If your dog is like most, he’s pretty happy that the summer’s here and he can run and play outside. However, the summer weather can also be challenging for a pet dog, since extreme heat can take a toll on a dog’s body. If you have a dog that loves to romp in the summer, but you also want to be sure he stays healthy and happy in the heat, check out the following tips. These dog health tips for summer will help ensure that you and your dog are thriving all season long.
Water, water, water!
Water is extremely important for humans when the weather gets hot, and it’s important for dogs, too! Make sure that you always keep your dog’s water bowl filled during the summer, and consider adding extra water bowls throughout the house so that your dog has something hydrating no matter what room or floor he is on. Consider getting a collapsible water bowl that you can tote around with you while you’re on the go with your pup. That way, when it’s hot in the car or when you’re out in public, you can simply unfold the bowl, fill it with water, let your dog drink, then stash the bowl away.
Walk in the Morning and Evening
Your dog needs to get his regular exercise in the summer, and you should continue to walk him regularly. When you are going for a walk with your dog, take water for both of you. Sipping water will help you quench your thirst and quickly cool down after a run. Otherwise, if you and your dog is not drinking water there is a risk of dehydration.
However, consider shifting the hours of your dog’s walks so that they’re in the morning and evening. The morning is often the coolest time of day during the summer, since the sun is just rising and the temperature has been lower all night. In the evening, you can walk your dog once the sun sets. By walking your dog during the morning and evening, you take advantage of the coolest times of the day, making sure you’re both comfortable during the walk, and that you can walk for as long as possible without getting too tired out.
Check for Ticks and Fleas
When dogs spend time outside during the summer, it’s really easy for them to pick up pests and parasites. After your dog comes in from playing in the yard or going on a walk, make sure you check him for ticks, fleas, or other bugs. You can keep a dog from getting sick by removing a tick quickly, and you can stop the spread of fleas if you catch them early. Make sure your dog gets regular tick and flea treatments at the vet to help prevent any problems. If your dog does get itchy from fleas or any other skin condition, take them to the vet. He’ll be able to diagnose any problems and prescribe medicines to help, like Apoquel.
Get a Hair Cut
Dogs’ hair can keep them feeling hot and weighed down in the summer. At the start of the season, take them to the groomer to get their hair trimmed. By taking some weight off their bodies and helping them stay cool, you’ll ensure that they’ll be more comfortable during the hot months.
Summertime weather is hard on humans and on dogs. However, if you keep some summertime health tips in mind for your pup, you can ensure that he stays comfortable all season, and that he gets to enjoy the warm weather before fall and winter arrive.
