Summer Heat
Some nice summer heat and sunshine can give us all a boost
after a long winter but many pets need special care to ensure
they enjoy the warm weather safely.
Sunburn
Any area of the skin with a thin covering of hair is at risk
to sunburn. Don't assume that your pet will be sensible - many
won't even seek shade when it is very hot. They can get
sunburned on their nose and if the skin is broken there is an
increased risk.
Dogs with white hair, short haired breeds and recently
groomed dogs are also more prone to sunburn. It's best to keep
them indoors when the sun is at its hottest. Put high factor
sunscreen lotion, one that would be safe to use on a child, on
your dog's ears to protect against serious sun damage.
Any dog may suffer heatstroke in hot weather but the very
young, the elderly and short-nosed breeds are most susceptible.
The condition results in excessive panting, or even collapse,
and requires emergency veterinary attention. To help combat
this, ensure there is adequate shade in the garden and try not
to over-exercise your pet when it's hot outside.
Keep them watered
It almost goes without saying but always provide your dog
with plenty of fresh drinking water at this time of year.
Canned food can go bad quite quickly if left out in warm
weather and may attract flies so you may want to consider
feeding a dry pet food instead.
Keep a close watch on your pet's weight. Some dogs will
spend more time exercising outdoors and so may need more food,
but if the weather becomes very warm, inactivity will decrease
the amount they need to eat.
Enjoying the summer
On long summer days your dog will always want to play
outside! Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the
season.
- Swimming: Many dogs love the water, and
a paddling pool is a great way to help beat the heat. Lakes
and the sea are great places for your dog to play, fetch and
swim. Just make sure your dog can easily get out of the water
and there are no steep banks. Some dogs are afraid of the
water, or only want to wade, so don't force him in if he
seems hesitant or unsure. But if he jumps right in and starts
perfecting his doggie-paddle, let him enjoy the experience.
Just be sure to watch for excessive head shaking and ear
scratching after the dip. This could be the sign of an ear
infection. If swimming in a chlorinated pool rinse his coat
of chlorine and dry completely.
- Hiking: If your dog is keen to hike, go
for it. Just be aware that long walks on rough ground can be
taxing on your dog's paws. Try short hikes at first, and
gradually lengthen your treks. Remember to stop for rest and
provide water frequently. There are quite a few small dog
water bowls that fold flat that you can take for your dog to
drink from.
Whether your dog spends a lot of time outside or has the
chance to explore the great outdoors only now and then, here
are tips to ensure she stays safe.
- Provide plenty of fresh water and make
sure she has a shaded place to take a nap and stay cool.
- Check his paws often, as tar and grit
can become embedded between the pads.
- Lawn, don't spray with pesticides if
your dog exercises on it.
- Make sure your dog has a collar and tag
with your name and address on in case she gets
lost. This is a legal requirement in the UK.