Summer is one of the most enjoyable seasons for walking your dog. That’s why many dog owners walk their dogs more regularly and for longer at this time. While this is a good thing, obviously, it’s important to be aware that the combination of warmer weather and spending more time outside raises a number of hazards for your dog. As a responsible owner, it’s essential that you are not only educated about these risks, but you know how to prevent them from happening. To ensure you and your pooch enjoy a stress- and pain-free summer, follow our safe dog walking tips for summer:
- Always bring water: When it’s hot, and your dog is getting lots of exercise, this can lead to overheating. Whenever you leave the house with your dog, even if it’s just for a short time, remember to bring a bottle of water and a little container that they can drink from. Offer the water to your dog regularly.
- Seek shade: Whenever you stop, perhaps for a picnic or to chat with a friend, find somewhere shaded that your dog can rest. Otherwise, the direct heat can lead to overheating and potentially heat stroke. For an extra safe approach, you could bring an umbrella with you just in case there is little opportunity for shade.
- Try to stop your dog from eating while you are walking: Parasites are at their most active in summer. Your dog may see a scrap of food on the street and think it looks tasty. But if it’s been sitting in the heat for any length of time, it could be contaminated. It’s not always easy to stop your dog from doing this. For a two-pronged attack, you could buy flea and worm products from http://www.wormers.co.uk/. Ensure you treat your dog in accordance with the manufacturer’s or vet’s recommendations. It’s also a good idea to check your dog’s coat for fleas and ticks on a daily basis.
- Avoid the hottest part of the day: Walking in the hottest part of the day simply is not safe or enjoyable for you or your dog. Instead, walk early in the morning and in the evening when it is much cooler.
- Short and regular: It’s often better, especially in the height of summer to do lots of little walks, rather than less but long walks. A long walk that you might be used to doing in the cooler weather can quickly become uncomfortable and dangerous if the weather is hot and your dog is being very physically active.
- Be aware: You know your furry friend more than anyone, so as well as this general advice, do keep your eye out for any other potential dangers or abnormal behaviour that you notice. For example, if your dog suddenly becomes quiet and sluggish it could be a sign that they are suffering from dehydration or overheating.
Thank you for taking the time to read our latest article on dog walking tips for summer.
