Doggy walking tips/advice for summer!

Good morning!

Today, I would like to talk to you a little bit about walking your dog in the summer time in a manner that conveniences your four legged companion!

I was raised with animals and over the years I had learned quite a bit about dogs, cats, and proper care of animals especially during certain seasons. I had acquired the information I am about to share with you from my vet when questions were brought up at my fur baby's appointments on how to keep her cool and most importantly safe during the summer time. It is very important to ask your vet these types of questions because, your dog (or cat) can actually die of a heat stroke if they become hot enough. Don't worry though, just read through this post and be sure to talk to your vet about any concerns or bring up any questions you may have as your vet will be able to really help you understand the dangers of summer heat and what you can do to protect your animals.

Now without further ado

Walking Tips

1. Timing is everything!

2. It is important to pick a good time for your walk. A lot of people walk their dog(s) throughout the day without really thinking about it. However, the pavement of the road (especially a blacktop) can be extremely hot in the afternoon sun. We do not feel it because, we have shoes on, however our dogs have pads on the bottom of their feet that can easily burn due to heat from the pavement/road/blacktop. It's important to take this into high consideration.

3. I personally walk my dogs either in the early morning around 8am or in the evening around 6 or 7pm this way it is cooler, the sun is not as high, there is still plenty of shade (from sun not being high) and the pavement may be a bit warm but it isn't anything that will damage or harm your dog's padding.

4. Furthermore if you must walk your dog in the afternoon, try to keep him/her in the grass OR you can also purchase little booties to put on your dog's feet as to protect him from hot pavements/roads/black tops. These can be found at any local pet store.

5. Preparation

6. so now you have your designated walking time but, what should you bring if anything?

7. Water

8. Bags (for picking up poo)

9. A cloth (to pour water on for your dog)

10. Now you might be wondering why would I need a cloth with water for my dog? Well my vet had told me once that if my dog ever overheated that I should get a cold cloth and press the cold cloth under my dog's arm pit's and between her legs as this is how to cool a dog down much like how we would put a cool cloth on our foreheads or under our armpits! So just in case, be prepared!

11. Treats

12. Body language

13. Definitely pay attention to your dog's body language during your walk. If your dog seems distressed, panting too heavily, find a spot in the shade and take a break! Once your dog has taken a short 2-3 minute break it's time to head home as your dog may be getting too hot.

Okay so we've covered the basics on how to have a safe and cool walk for your dog, now let's talk about keeping your dog cool in general.

1. Look at the gums!

2. According to my veterinarian, if the gums are purple or red this is a big sign that your dog is over heating and you should get the cool cloth (not cold) and place it in those important areas mentioned above. (under armpits, between legs)

3. Following the cloth application, get your dog a fan or a/c and a bowl of ice cold water!

4. Monitor your dog

5. Keep an eye on your dog throughout the day and make sure to give him/her plenty of water.

So there you have it! Thank you for reading, and be sure to leave a comment/share with your friends on how you keep your dog's cool in the summer. Thanks guys have a great one!!

#Dogadvice