6 Summertime Safety Tips for Dog Owners

Summertime has officially started, which means it’s the perfect time for outdoor fun and activities! While you should bring your dog along on all your adventures, there are a few things you should be aware of during the hot summer months. Here are a few tips to keep you and your dog cool, calm and collected this summer.

1. Never, EVER, leave your dog in the car.

Leaving your dog in the car, even for a few minutes, is enough time for your dog to suffer a heat stroke. Parked cars (yes, even if you’re parked in the shade) become at least 10 to 15 degrees hotter inside, making it even more likely your dog may suffocate. It’s safest to leave your dog at home on hot days; however, if you do need to bring you pup when you’re on the go, it’s best to bring plenty of water and to call ahead of time to check the dog policy at the places you’ll be visiting.

2. Keep your dog’s paws cool.

We all know what it feels like to step on asphalt or concrete on a scorching hot day: unbearable! Since Fido doesn’t like his feet burned either, try to walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day or on the grass. Also, make sure to moisturize their paws, as cracking and peeling can make them more susceptible to getting burns from the sidewalk. There are several creams available for your dog that are safe, even if he decides to lick them. One of our favorites is TriDerma’s Intense Fast Healing Cream.

3. Firework safety.

Summer is the time for celebration, especially during Fourth of July Weekend. If fireworks are a must at your party, it’s best to keep your dog at home or safely secured inside of your home. Fireworks can cause severe burns or trauma and are toxic if your dog ingests them. And since more dogs go missing on July 4

Summer is the time for celebration, especially during Fourth of July Weekend. If fireworks are a must at your party, it’s best to keep your dog at home or safely secured inside of your home. Fireworks can cause severe burns or trauma and are toxic if your dog ingests them. And since more dogs go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year, make sure your dog is always wearing its collar and you have a firm hold of the leash in case crowds and noises frighten them.

4. Keep those pesky insects off!

If not protected, your dog is at risk for a lot of dangerous insect-caused conditions. There are insect-repellants specially made for dogs that protect against multiple types of bites. For extra prevention, avoid walking your dog when mosquitos are more active, typically at dawn and dusk, and avoid standing water. Fix any openings in your window that may be letting insects indoors and keep water bowls inside.

5. Dogs need sunscreen too.

You wouldn’t go the beach unprotected, so don’t leave your dog unprotected either! Even though your dog’s fur provides some natural protection, no dog is in the clear for sunburns. Overexposure to the sun can cause the same effects to your dog that we experience, such as burns, pain and even skin cancer. Ask your veterinarian about which canine-specific sunscreen is right for your dog. Overall, it’s best to keep your dog cool and limit their time sunbathing.

6. Watch your dog around water.

Don’t assume your dog knows how to swim well. Fido may need help getting out of water or could be in danger of drowning. Never let your dog roam around your pool or any other body of water without supervision. If you’re dropping your dog off at a doggy spa for the day and they can’t swim, reinforce that your dog needs to be watched around water. It’s a good idea to use kiddy pools for your dog when they need to cool off from the summer sun.

We know caring for a dog can be hard work. So, while you and your pup beat the heat and practice these summertime safety tips, let Scoop Soldiers free your backyard from pet waste. Contact us today to schedule your first poop scooping.

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