Caring for your dog
 Beating
the Heat
As the cooler spring weather gives way to the
hot summer months, you'll be spending more time outside with your
dog, walking and playing in the sunshine. But while you are having
fun, you will need to keep your dog cool to protect it from heat-related
illness and injury. Below are ten tips to help keep your dog cool
and healthy in the summer.
- Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or in a closed
vehicle. This can cause heat stroke and possibly death.
- Avoid strenuous activity with your dog during extremely hot
periods of the day.
- After gardening, make sure poisonous plants and fertilisers
are out of your dog’s reach. Keep your dog off the lawn
for at least 24 hours after a fertiliser is applied.
- Beware of insect bites. If your dog has severe reactions to
a bite take it to the veterinarian immediately.
- When taking your dog to the beach, make sure there is plenty
of fresh water and shade available.
- Dogs can be sunburned just like humans. White and light coloured
dogs are especially sensitive. Apply pet sunscreen on the ears
and nose 30 minutes before going out in the sun. If your dog stays
outside every day, apply sunscreen daily.
- Be careful not to let your dog spend too much time on hot sand
or asphalt. Dogs can burn their pads easily.
- Don’t allow your dog to drink too much sea water while
at the beach.
- Keep your dogs vaccinations up to date. Summer is when dogs
meet more often and come into areas where dogs have been.
- Swimming is great exercise, but it uses muscles not often used.
Make sure your dog doesn’t tire.
By following these helpful tips, both you
and your dog can enjoy the dog days of summer.
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