“We see and hear of so many dogs every summer that get dangerously ill, or worse, by being placed in completely avoidable situations,” stated Michelle Rodriguez, Bark Busters’ dog behavioral therapist.  “Many times the owners just don’t know any better, so education is the first step in preventing our dogs from getting heat stroke, dehydration and other heat-related maladies.”

Depending on your experience level with dogs, below are either some new tips or some important reminders to keep your canine friends happy and safe during the summer months.

Heat

Heat can kill...and very quickly. Make sure your pet has plenty of cool, clean water.  Do not dehydrate your pup by exercising it in the heat of the day.  Save the run or long walk for early morning or late evening when it is cooler.  Bring plenty of water with you and give him or her a drink whenever you take one. Be aware, too, that hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws.  So if the pavement feels warm or hot to your hand, your dog will not like it. Dogs don’t have shoes to insulate their feet.

If your dog is spending time outside, make sure he or she has shade available  along with plenty of  water.  Provide two or more sources of water in case one gets knocked over. Your dog will also need shelter in the event of a sudden storm. For his or her shelter, be sure to provide adequate ventilation because heat is a major cause of death in pets in the summer.

Cars and Trucks

Do not leave your dog in the car, even with the windows open.  Heat buildup is tremendous, and it will not take long for your dog to overheat and suffer heat stroke.  In less than 10 minutes, a car can reach over 120 degrees when it is only 80 degrees outside.  Remember, your dog is wearing a fur coat.  Think how you would feel if you were wearing fur this time of the year.

Some dogs love to stick their heads out of the window to catch a breeze. It may look cute to you, but flying objects can injure your dog’s eyes and the constant flapping of  their ears in the wind can harm them.  Instead, crate or harness your dog to keep him or her safe.  The back of a pickup is not a safe place.  If untethered, he or she can jump or fall out, and even if tethered, may get jerked around and injured during turns or sudden stops.  Your dog could also be hurt from the intense heat on the bed of a pickup.

Water

If your dog loves the water and loves to jump into the pool, make sure he or she knows how to get out safely.  Dogs will instinctively try to get out at the same place they went in, so it is important to teach your dog or puppy where and how to get out of the pool regardless of where they went in.  It is also important for you to keep an eye out  when he or she is in the pool because swimming is very tiring for a dog.

Be aware of the surrounding area if you take your dog to the beach, lake or pond.  Watch for trouble and make sure your dog will come to you as soon as you call.  Recall is one of the most important lessons you can teach. It can literally save your dogs life.

With a little planning and thought, we can help our dogs enjoy the summer and make it through without incident.  

We love our pets and want them to be with us for as long as possible.

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