Officially it's not summer yet, but it feels like summer here in Denver. We already reached the 100 degree this past week.
I wanted to share a few tips to help your companions have a cool and safe summer. I have learnt a few tips so I thought it might be helpful to pass it on...
1/ Dogs and cats can have sunburn! especially light colored dogs with short fur. There are sun protection lotions specifically formulated for dogs. Don’t use human sunscreen on your pet; many of the chemicals are toxic to them.
2/Shaving Your dog might not keep him cool.
Do not shave your dog because he’s panting. If you have a double coated breed their fur is actually providing relief from the heat, and shaving it will make it worse.
3/Make sure your dog is wearing identification.
We spend a lot of time outdoors with our dogs in the summer, and that increases the risk of them running off or getting lost. Make sure your dog has a collar with your phone number on it, and it’s a good idea to have your dog microchipped in case their collar comes off.
4/Short faced dogs are more susceptible to heat stroke
If you have a short faced (brachycephalic) dog like a bulldog, pug, bull mastiffs, Boston terriers, boxers, shih tzus, lhasa apsos and pekingese, among others. remember that they don’t pant efficiently; they’re much more susceptible to heat stroke. Bulldogs are especially intolerant to heat. They should have limited access to the outdoors when the weather gets above 80 degrees.
5/Keep your dog's paws cool, walk during the early and later hours of the day.
Pets heat and cool from the bottom up. If you’re out in the sun together, try to keep your pet off of hot surfaces like cement and asphalt. Not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating.
When spraying your dog with water, make sure to spray the paws and stomach to cool them down quicker. If you are using a wet towel, it’s better to rub their paws and stomach than top coat.
Avoid prolonged exposure to sand and hot asphalt – it can burn your dogs paws. In the summer try to walk your dog in the morning or evening when the pavement isn’t so hot. If you walk during the day stick to grassy or wooded areas.
6/Don't forget the life vest.
Just like us, dogs enjoy cooling off in water, pool, lake, or ocean. But be very careful where you choose to let them. No all dogs swim well. And even those that do, might not know how to get out of the pool. Also, strong currents and riptides can sweep a dog out to sea.
If you decide to take your doggy sailing or boating, be sure he wears a life vest in a bright color to stay visible and afloat in case of an accident. Always keep an eye on your furry companion when near water.
Happy summer to all of you pet lovers!😀
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