Summer Safety Tips For Your Dog

 

Summer is a great time to play outside with your dog, but excessive heat and sun exposure can be dangerous for them. Dr. Simon Starkey, a veterinarian with PetSmart Canada, lists some things to keep in mind to make sure your pet stays safe and healthy:

 

Never leave your dog in a parked car: Doing this even for “just a minute” is never a good idea as temperatures can rise very quickly. It isn’t enough to open a window or park in the shade.

 

Groom regularly: Keeping your dog’s coat healthy is the easiest way to help protect against the sun. Make sure to regularly brush their coat to remove loose hairs and prevent excess shedding. The Furminator is a handy de-shedding tool for removing excess hair.

 

Skin protection: Dogs can get burned by the sunshine too. A protective shirt ensures pets can be both safe and fashionable, particularly for short-haired dogs. Martha Stewart carries a line of hip summer-wear for pets.

 

Keep hydrated: Dehydration and heatstroke can be fatal for a dog, so make sure that they have access to clean water both indoors and outdoors. Are you travelling? Bring a portable drinking container so they can have a sip whenever they’re thirsty.

 

Avoid hot surfaces: The soles of dog’s feet may look tough, but they can burn and blister on hot surfaces. Schedule walks for morning or evening when pavements are cooler.

 

Keep water safety top of mind: Even if you think your dog is a good swimmer, it’s always a good idea to put on a life jacket while on boats or beaches.

 

More information is available online at www.petsmart.com.

 

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