How To Protect Your Dog This Summer

Summer presents its own unique set of challenges for pet owners, with many dogs becoming more vulnerable to the heat. It's important to think about how you can best protect your dog from extreme heat and outdoor elements. From providing plenty of water and shade on outdoor excursions to monitoring when to go on walks and looking out for signs of heat stroke in dogs, let's discuss how you can ensure your canine companion is safe in every summer situation. As one of the most trusted pet waste removal services and proud lovers of dogs, Alpha Pet Waste has the perfect guide on summer safety for dogs and giving yourself the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog is protected all season long!

1. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car

You should absolutely never leave your dog in a car alone, even if you leave the windows cracked. Parked cars can reach a temperature of 120 degrees, rising at a steady rate, and open windows are not enough to keep the car cool. Dogs are unable to regulate their temperature like humans, having to rely on panting to keep cool. When in a parked car, a panting dog is simply recycling the hot air and will be unable to cool down, making the heat potentially deadly for your dog. 

Who to Call For Dog in a Hot Car

If you come across a dog left alone in a hot car, look for the owner first. If the owner cannot be located, contact the non-emergency number of the local police or animal control and wait by the vehicle for their arrival. In some states, you may lawfully extract animals from cars and be protected from paying for any damages that occurred during the rescue. But you’ll want to make sure you know the regulations in your region before taking action. 

2. Access to Fresh Water

Dogs need to stay hydrated, so it’s important to make sure they drink plenty of water.  You should do this every day to ensure your dog stays hydrated but it’s especially important in the summer or on hot days. Keep their water bowl filled with clean and fresh water. You’ll also want to make sure to carry a bottle of water along on walks. There are a number of products such as foldable bowls and bottles made specifically for dogs to make keeping them hydrated easier. 

3. Access to Shade When Outside

If you let your dog stay outside without your supervision, make sure there’s a shady place for them to rest. Also, be sure to limit how much time they spend outside and only let them out during the cooler times of the day such as mornings and evenings. On especially hot days, it’s best to keep your dog indoors to keep them cool, safe, and healthy. 

4. Tips for Taking Walks

When you decide to take your dog on a walk, there are several important steps you should take to ensure the safety of your dog and prevent heat damage. The first one is to consider what time of day you are walking your dog. It’s best to walk in the cooler times of day whether that is in the morning or in the evening. You should avoid walking during the hottest time which is usually around 2 pm. 

Next, you should check the temperature of the ground. While the temperature may seem okay to us, asphalt, gravel, and pavement can quickly absorb the sunlight making it too hot for their paws. Whenever you choose to go for a walk, you should place your hand against the ground and hold it for 10 seconds. If you can’t keep it on the ground then it’s too hot for your dog. If you can, let your dog walk in grassy or wooded areas that won’t be as hot as pavement. 

5. Watch Out for Heat Strokes in Dogs 

Heatstroke is a dangerous condition that can arise if precautions aren't taken during hot and humid weather. Dogs are at a greater risk of heatstroke than humans as they can’t regulate their body temperature as efficiently as humans can. Flat-faced breeds, like bulldogs and pugs, are particularly vulnerable since their panting is less effective when cooling down. If you suspect your dog may be suffering from heatstroke, it’s critical to seek veterinary care immediately. 

Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Dizziness

By following the above advice about keeping your dog cool and safe in the warm months, you will help prevent heat stroke in dogs. Still, it is important to keep your eye on your dog and watch out for these signs of heat stroke in dogs. 

Reach Out to Alpha Pet Waste Removal Today

Looking for a reliable and efficient pet waste removal service that can keep your lawn clean and smelling fresh? Let Alpha Pet Waste Removal take care of the dirty work for you! Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality pet waste removal services to our clients. We understand that keeping a clean and hygienic environment for your pets is essential, and we strive to deliver on that promise with every service we offer. Whether you need weekly, bi-weekly, or one-time cleanings, we've got you covered. With our affordable dog waste removal cost, Alpha Pet Waste Removal is the perfect solution for all your pet waste removal needs. Reach out to us today and see what we can do for you!