Summer is a great season for you and your dog to enjoy your time outside! It is important to be prepared to help Fido avoid overheating or potentially developing heat stroke. Check out Bark & Fitz’s tips to help you and your dog beat the heat and have an awesome summer!
Never leave your pet alone in a parked car! On a warm day, the temperature inside a car can reach over 120 degrees Fahrenheit in minutes, even with the windows open. If you bring Fido along in the car, you need to be mindful of where you are going. Not all stores allow dogs inside but pets are always welcome inside Bark & Fitz!
Keep your home cool! Turn on your air conditioning and close your blinds to help prevent your house from heating up during the day. If you do not have air conditioning, open your windows and leave a fan on. A cooling mat is a great resource to ensure that Fido can always cool himself down.
Be strategic about what time of the day you and Fido go out to play. Try to exercise your dog during the early morning or evening as they tend to be the coolest parts of the day. If it is extra hot and humid out, you may need to limit the time spent outside for you and your dog’s safety.
When you are walking your dog, make sure to check the temperature of the pavement or incorporate paw protection gear into Fido’s gear. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for Fido’s paws!
A short summer haircut can be a great way to help Fido beat the heat! Remember to check with your groomer or vet before making any major grooming decisions. If Fido is double-coated, that extra fur helps to keep him from overheating in the warm weather. Instead, giving your dog a good brush removes loose hair and helps Fido stay cool!
Be mindful of your pet’s individual needs. Snub-nosed dogs such as pugs or bulldogs are often more affected by the heat than other breeds. Older or overweight dogs or those with other health challenges may be more at risk for developing heatstroke.
Fido can’t tell you when he doesn’t feel well so it is important to be proactive and help your dog stay cool during the summer!
