Summertime Safety for Your Dog

Summer is a season of sunshine, longer days, and outdoor adventures, but warmer weather also brings a few extra challenges for our four-legged friends. From staying cool and hydrated to protecting sensitive paws and avoiding heat-related dangers, a little preparation can go a long way in helping your dog enjoy a safe, happy, and healthy summer.

Follow these simple tips to keep your canine companion cool and comfortable while making the most of everything summer has to offer.

Summer Tick Prevention for Dogs

As the weather gets warmer across Canada, tick populations are growing and spreading to new areas. The blacklegged tick, which can carry Lyme disease, is becoming more common. Since ticks can become active whenever temperatures rise above 4°C, summer is an especially risky time for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

Keeping ticks away in the summer takes a few different steps.

• Use tick medicine recommended by your veterinarian

• Check your dog every day for ticks

• Keep your yard clean and tidy

The blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick, is the most common tick that carries Lyme disease.

Click HERE to read good article about the ticks in Ontario from the CBC web site

Please Don't Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Never leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle. Not even with the windows cracked.

Cars heat up rapidly, and the glass acts like a greenhouse, causing temperatures inside to rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

We all love bringing our furry companions along for errands and adventures, but if you need to make a stop, either bring your dog with you or ensure someone remains in the vehicle with the air conditioning running, fresh water available, and your dog closely monitored.

However, I would recommend that you leave your dog at home, it is not worth it.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Dogs can become dehydrated quickly during hot and humid weather, so always provide plenty of fresh, clean water. Make sure your dog has access to shade and a cool place to rest and avoid excessive exercise during the hottest parts of the day. On extremely hot days, it's best to keep outdoor activities to a minimum, do “micro walks” and spend more time indoors. Your dog will thank you.

Plan Your Walks

Your dog still needs daily exercise during the summer, but timing is everything. Avoid walking during the peak heat of the day, as asphalt and pavement can become hot enough to burn your dog's paw pads. If you need to head out during the afternoon, keep it brief and stick to a short potty break or a "micro walk." Early morning and evening walks are much cooler and more enjoyable for both you and your best friend.

Quick test: hold your hand flat on the pavement for 5 seconds. If you pull away, your dog should not be walking on it.

Do Not Skip the Groomer

A great way to kick off the season is with a trip to the groomer. Understanding your dog's coat type is important, as it determines the kind of grooming they need.

My dog Arya, a Siberian Husky mix, requires regular brushing with an undercoat rake several times a week. At the beginning of the warmer months, I also take her to the groomer for a bath and an undercoat blowout. Removing that excess fur makes a huge difference in helping her regulate her body temperature and stay comfortable throughout the summer.

Visit Your Veterinarian

Schedule a summer wellness check with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is healthy and ready for the season. If your dog is not on a year-round heartworm prevention program, talk to your vet about having them tested and discuss the best preventive options available.

With a little planning and a few extra precautions, you and your dog can safely enjoy all the fun that summer has to offer. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and make plenty of happy memories together!

Dogs4Walks Is Here All Summer

Walks, private outings, house visits. I work around your schedule, and I know what your dog needs to stay safe and active in the heat.

Reach out anytime. First meet and greet is always free.