Safe Fun in the Sun with Jake

In South Florida especially…summer is in full swing, and June is one of the hottest months. But just because the sun is beating down, doesn’t mean your puppy has to lose out on their outdoors time. Jake would drive me crazy if he didn’t get his dog park time, but because of the heat, I have to take additional precautions to ensure that Jake is happy and healthy all summer long. 

Pet Supermarket sent me this great list of basic tips to avoid a few summer hazards. So I put a little of theirs and added some of my own to help any of you dog lovers out there!

Dehydration – If your dog is anything like Jake, they love to play outdoors, but they can overdo it in hot weather. Make sure your doggy is hydrated because he'll feel more intense heat at his level, closer to the pavement, than you will, and he has a layer of fur as well. If going to the dog park, bring water for him, be it in a cooler or just a 12 ounce bottle.

Heatstroke – It is easy to think that on your way back from the dog park you can stop off at the store real quick and run in and grab something while your dog stays in the car. But in the summer sun you should never leave your dog in the car. Even with the windows down, a car can reach oven-like temperatures that are fatal. Leave him at home instead or have someone stay in the air-conditioned car with him.

Signs of heat stroke:

• Vigorous panting
• Lying down and unwilling to get up
• Dark red gums
• Tacky or dry gums
• Thick saliva
• Dizziness
• Collapsing or fainting

Sunburn - Believe it or not, dogs get sunburned too, especially if they have short hair and fair skin. You can easily care for your doggy by applying sunscreen to his back, head, nose and ears before going outside. I am not sure how much Jake would appreciate that, but it would be the hell out of him getting sunburn and cancer…he is a short haired dog.

Overwhelming crowds – During the summer there are all kinds of fairs, carnivals and events and we want to go to them (as long as no clowns are involved). Large outdoor events are often overwhelming and could lead to injuries, dehydration or exhaustion more easily. Also, if you dog is like mine and wants to eat everything in site, they run the risk of eating unhealthy food or trash left on the ground.

Keeping Cool – Sitting inside at work or in the a/c all day can make you forget how hot it really is outside for your dog. If you keep your dog outside during the, be sure to give them a cool area that they can relax in and plenty of water. If it is possible, try to keep them indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Swimming dangers - Since your dog might not be a natural swimmer, stick close when he dips in. If you have a pool, think about buying a ramp so he can get out if he falls into the deep end. Going to the beach? Watch for undertows and jellyfish. Also, keep him from drinking salt water, which is dehydrating.

Getting lost - With more outside playtime, your pup might try to get away to visit your furry neighbors. Now's the time to make sure your yard is fully secure and his ID tag has a current phone number. A microchip ID is also a good idea, you can ask you vet about them if you are interested!