Keeping your Pup Cool

Though we love the warm weather and the start of summer, it’s vital to make some adjustments for your dog so that they can enjoy the summer sun with you! The following is a short check list to start you off so you and your dog can start chilling!

Never leave your dog in the car.

Not even with the windows open. Not even with the air conditioning on. Never. EVER!

Avoid walks in the midday sun.

Try and keep walks to early morning or evening when the day is at its coolest and always take plenty of water for the journey.

Check the pavement temperature.

If the pavement is too hot for your hand to touch, it’s too hot your your dog’s paws. The skin on their pads can easily burn, so keeping off hot concrete and walking on grass is an easy way to avoid this. Booties are also a handy way to help protect pups’ paws against all kinds of perils!

Shade, water, shade, water...!

At K9 Anytime, our dogs constantly rotate between the indoor and outdoor spaces, sunshine and shade, avoiding the hottest midday sun by heading indoors for some chill out time in our cool indoor playrooms. The water troughs are always full to the brim with fresh cool water, and the hose pipe comes out a couple of times a day for a bit of crazy cool down fun! If your dog is going to be home alone, make absolutely certain that they will have access to PLENTY of cool shade and water through the day so that they can stay comfortable and safe.

Sun burn

Light haired dogs, those with little or short hair are susceptible to sun burn. Make sure they aren’t in the sun for extended periods, or speak to your vet about a suitable sun cream.

Summer coat care

Keep your dog’s coat in ship shape for the summer. Keeping their hair dos in good condition will also help them manage with warmer weather. Make sure you speak to your groomer before you try your own hand at trimming - extra fur that keeps them warm in winter might also be helping them stay cool in the summer! Every dog and every coat has their own individual needs and requirements.

Over heating and heat stroke

If you notice any of the following in your dog, they might be suffering from heat stroke and you should get them to the vet right away: