• HYDRATE
    • Just like humans, dogs can get heat exhaustion and dehydration when the temps are high.  Be sure to remember to offer fresh water often when outside in the heat.  Watch for signs of over-heating such as excessive panting and drooling, lethargic, dry gums, vomiting or diarrea.
  • DON’T SHAVE COAT
    • Often pet owners feel bad for their dog when they have a heavy coat.  Rest assured, your dog’s coat is designed to keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.  Regular brushing and trimming are recommended to keep the coat in tip-top shape.
  • AVOID HOT PAVEMENT
    • Remember that if you would not want to walk barefoot on hot pavement, avoid walking your dog on sidewalks or paved roads for any length of time in the hot temps.   Paw pads can burn and blister and cause pain and even lead to infection.  Be mindful of the temperatures and walk in grass or gravel if possible.  Dog booties are an option if your pup will tolerate wearing them.  Walking earlier or later in the day is also another smart option to avoid the mid-day heat and protect your pup’s paws.
  • SUNSCREEN
    • Pet’s can get skin cancer too!  Fur provides some protection but it is recommended to apply a sunscreen specific to dogs to the exposed parts of your dog such as the belly, ears and nose.  Ask your vet to suggest a safe sun protectant product for your dog.
  • BUG OFF
    • Flea, tick, heartworm and mosquito  prevention products are important to keep your pet free from illness. and irritation.  Protect your pup from Lyme Disease, heart worm, flea bites and other illnesses by talking to your groomer and/or vet about products that can help protect them from these pests.
  • GARDEN AND YARD DANGERS
    • Be aware of potentially toxic landscaping and flowers around your yard that your pup has access to.  There are some flowers and shrubs that are toxic to pets.  Lawn care products and fertilizers can harm your dog or cause an allergic reaction.  You can either keep your pet away from freshly treated lawns or check into pet safe products as an alternative.
  • NO PETS IN HOT VEHICLES
    • Do not leave your pet in your vehicle in the spring/summer heat.  Temperatures can rise very quickly, even just minutes, leading to death. If you choose to bring your pet, leave windows open.  Windows that are cracked open provide little to no relief from heat.  If you cannot leave windows open or have another person stay in the car with the air on or windows down then do not bring your pet along.  It is illegal in many states to leave a pet in your vehicle and law enforcement and citizens are not penalized if they break a window to rescue a pet from a hot vehicle.  Bottom line, if you wouldn’t sit in your vehicle for any length of time with out air conditioning or your windows down then do not consider leaving a pet in the car to suffer.
Have fun in the sun and be safe!