Summertime dog safety tips

Some tips to help you and your dogs have an enjoyable and safe summertime

Found HERE

Summer is finally upon us, and with that comes the need for us to pay attention to the heat for both us, and our four legged friends:

1. Check the pavement for temperature with the palm of your hand. If after 10 seconds your hand is scorching then so too will dog paws. Use dog shoes to prevent the pads on their paws from burning and blistering.

2. Never leave your puppy in the car unattended. Temperatures rise 20 degrees in 10 minutes. The glass on car windows acts as a magnifier of the sun. In several states it is “against the law” to leave a dog unattended in extreme temperatures.

3. Watch for snakes. They like to curl up in hoses on the ground and inside empty plant pots. Do not allow a curious dog to stick its nose in brush or explore holes in the ground. Keep your dog’s head up when walking.

4. Puppies and dogs will play endlessly if you allow them, but please do not allow your canine friends endless amounts of play time (in any weather, but particularly the summer). Maximum playtime should be 10-15 minutes since they can easily exhaust themselves and get heat stroke; the younger pups can cause damage to their growing limbs. Walk with your canine friends in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler and always have water for you and your canine friends.

5. Pool time. Your dog should not drink pool water as it can upset its digestive tract and even be dangerous if it is salt water that is ingested. Also, your dog should not wear a nylon collar during swim time. The nylon holds moisture and can cause hot spots. As with playtime, time in the pool should be limited. Please make sure the dog is dried completely with a towel, especially Golden Retrievers as they tend to hold moisture around the neck area with their feathering and heavy coat.

6. Hair length. Please do not cut the hair on your dogs during the summer; their fur protects them from the sun as it does the cold. If you must, please leave at least one inch length since shaving them to their skin can cause them to get sunburn.


Have a safe and fun summer!

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