Summer is here, and you and your dog are ready for some fun in the sun! However, it’s important that you and your pet enjoy the summer weather safely.
At Top Dog Training and Resort, we recommend incorporating a few simple things into your routine or vacation plan to keep your pet happy and healthy all summer long.
We are a Chapel Hill pet resort and dog trainer near you. Our certified trainers know all the ins and outs of dog care, and we’re here to share our top summer dog care tips!
Everyday Summer Dog Care
There are a few basics for summer dog care that you will need to work into your routine.
When taking your dog outdoors in the summer, remember:
- Give them plenty of water.
- Make sure your dog has a shady spot outside. Dog houses trap heat and are not safe shelters during the summer.
- Fill a kiddie pool with water and allow your dog to wade in it to cool off.
- Never leave your dog alone in a closed vehicle. The temperature in the car will rise much more quickly than outdoors.
- Do not walk your dog on hot asphalt. If it hurts your hand, it will burn your pet’s paws. Time walks for the early morning or evening when temperatures will be naturally lower.
If it is too hot, keep your dog inside with air conditioning.
Summer Vacation Tips for Dogs
If you’re planning on a summer vacation with your dog, you are going to need to take a few safety precautions.
Travel Tips
- Bring fresh water and stop frequently for water breaks.
- Bring towel-wrapped ice packs for your dog. If they are traveling by crate, place the ice packs directly in the crate.
- Consider adding a sunshade to car windows.
- If you are flying, investigate the airline’s specific travel rules.
- If you are shipping a dog, be sure to give them ice packs and water.
- Identify the nearest veterinarian in your chosen destination.
Beach Tips
- Make sure that pets are allowed on your chosen beach.
- Apply sunscreen. Dogs can get sunburned, too!
- Make sure that you have a shady spot where your dog can rest, such as an umbrella, beach tent, or outdoor beach pen.
- Give your dog plenty of freshwater.
- Keep an eye on your dog. You don’t want them getting stung by a jellyfish, drinking seawater, or getting overtired from running in the sand.
- Give your dog a rinse at the end of the day. Salt, sand, and minerals can harm their coat.
Remember, not all vacation destinations are dog-friendly! If they’re not, consider the best source for dog boarding near you: Top Dog’s dog boarding.
At our Chapel Hill pet resort, we offer safe, comfortable dog boarding with skilled caregivers and access to our day school.
What To Do If Your Dog Gets Overheated or Dehydrated
The biggest dangers your dog faces in the summer are dehydration and heatstroke. It’s important to keep an eye open for symptoms and behavioral changes.
Symptoms of dehydration include:
- Panting
- Dry nose and gums
- Lethargy
- Sunken eyes
Heatstroke tends to have two phases. In the early phase, dogs will experience:
- Panting
- Rapid breathing
- Drooling
- Bright red gums and tongue
- Difficulty balancing
In the later stages of heatstroke, your dog may exhibit:
- White or blue gums
- Lethargy
- Noisy, difficult breathing
- Shock
- Uncontrollable urination or defecation
If your dog is in late-stage heatstroke, take them to a vet immediately.
It is important to act fast! If your dog is exhibiting any of the above symptoms:
- Move your dog to the shade.
- Give your dog fresh water.
- Water may not be enough, especially in cases of dehydration. You will need to replenish their electrolytes as well, using electrolyte-enhanced water or pet-safe electrolyte solutions.
- Cool your dog down by spritzing them with cool or lukewarm (not cold!) water.
- Fan your dog.
Check your dog’s temperature, and once it is between 100 and 102 degrees, you can stop the cooling process. If you are unsuccessful in getting your dog’s temperature to a healthy level, seek veterinary help.
Dog Care with Top Dog
Top Dog is here to guarantee the best care for your dog. We are Chapel Hill’s premier dog training, dog grooming, and dog boarding center.
We do everything we can to keep your dog happy and healthy, and we work with your unique needs and schedule. We even offer a shuttle service for stress-free pick-up and drop-off.
Contact us now to discover dog training with a lifetime guarantee, top-notch dog boarding, and superior grooming!
