Protect Your Pack with Our Sizzling Summer Care Guide

We love a sun-drenched summer. From cookouts in the backyard to dreamy beach trips, family vacations, and enjoying the great outdoors with our pups. But as the temperatures soar, keeping our canine companions safe, cool, and comfortable is essential to avoid hot weather hazards and keep four-legged friends happy and healthy.

Our top 10 tips to beat the heat and enjoy the dog days of summer

1. Get wise with walks

Overheating poses one of the biggest dangers to our pups. Avoid walks in the hottest part of the day and opt for early morning or dusk instead, when the temperatures are generally cooler. Keep an eye on signs the heat might be getting too much for your pup, and be mindful of your route. Go for shady woodland paths over direct sunlight, or consider incorporating a swimming spot like a stream so your dog can enjoy a refreshing dip.

2. Keeping cool is king

We might love nothing better than lounging poolside, but our dogs can't tolerate the heat as well as we can, so it's best to keep pups in the shade when the temperatures rise or let them chill inside where there is air conditioning or rest in a cool spot such as a basement.
For an easy, breezy, cooling boost, why not enlist the power of cooling technology, especially designed for dogs? Cooling mats, bandanas, or beds can offer a refreshing respite. Or, keep it simple but effective and offer your pup a cool, damp towel to lie down on—perfect for that summer siesta. 

3. Stay hydrated 

Water is essential for your dog's health all year round, but it is especially vital in warmer weather. Make sure your pup has unlimited cool, fresh water to drink, especially before and after walks; you could even add a few ice cubes to their bowl and don't forget to pack water to hydrate on the go. Dog-friendly fresh fruit and vegetables are another tasty way to increase your dog's water intake; try super-hydrating watermelon or refreshing cucumber. 

4. Think about transport 

Remember to factor dog-friendly travel into your exciting vacation plans. Never leave your pup in a parked vehicle, even with the windows ajar, as this can prove fatal. The temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit in just 20 minutes.

5. Protect the paws

Surfaces such as sidewalks, asphalt, and sand can become scorching in the sun and risk burning sensitive paw pads. If you're unsure if it's too hot to trot, check the temperature with your hand or foot to see if the surface is too hot for little paws. 

6. Have a puppy pool party

Water play is a great way to have fun in the sun. Why not set up a kid's wading pool, dog swimming pool, or misting fan in a shady backyard spot and have a puppy pool party? Remember, even if your pup is a competent swimmer, never leave them unattended and make sure, in all the excitement they don't drink chlorinated water, which can upset tummies.

7. Don't forget SPF

Did you know you can get pet-safe sun cream to protect your dog's delicate skin, such as its ears and nose? This is especially important if your dog has short, lighter-colored fur, which is more prone to burning. 
Talking of fur, don't let the heat of the moment keep you from those grooming appointments. Not only will pups look super cute for those vacation snaps, but a little haircut can remove excess hair to help prevent overheating.

8. Slow things down

The heat can be hard work for our canine companions, so avoid strenuous exercise or energetic games, which can increase the risk of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Slow down the pace, keep walks brief, limit those fetch sessions, and include lots of water breaks and shady spots for some R&R. 

9. Heatstroke - know the signs 

Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when a dog's body temperature rises to dangerous levels, and they can't cool down. Get familiar with the signs of heatstroke so you can act quickly and get veterinarian care. Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, bright red gums or tongue, sticky saliva, weakness or dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea, tremors or seizures, and loss of consciousness. 

10. Indulge in a frozen treat

Beat the heat with a chilled or frozen healthy treat—a tasty way to cool down and great for mental enrichment too. We love these hot weather heroes, easy and delicious Hydrating Tropicool Pupsicles.

Ingredients

• Watermelon
• Pineapple
• Coconut water 

Method

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Add to a popsicle mold of your choice. Freeze (for at least 4 hours) and hydrate!

Final paws for thought

Your pup's health comes first. Remember that you know your dog best. If your dog is particularly vulnerable to the heat due to age, breed or health issues, take the relevant measures to keep them safe and well, or consult your veterinary team for more summer season advice. Wishing you a fun and safe summer from the Top Dog team!