Summer is here and it’s time to get outside with your furry friend! But as the temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra care to keep your pup cool and comfortable on walks. Not only can heat distress be dangerous for dogs, but it can also ruin a fun day out. Here are some tips for keeping your dog safe and happy on summer walks.
During hot weather, it’s important to be strategic about the time of day that you take your dog for a walk. Generally, it’s best to avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day, which are typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, try to plan your walks for the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense. This can help keep your dog more comfortable and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
In addition to choosing the right time of day, it’s also important to pay attention to other factors that can affect your dog’s comfort level during walks. For example, you’ll want to avoid walking on hot blacktops or asphalt, which can scorch your dog’s paws and cause discomfort. Instead, stick to grassy areas or shaded paths whenever possible. You can also bring along a water bottle and a collapsible bowl to make sure your dog stays hydrated on hot days.
At That’s So Fetch, our staff members are trained to recognize the signs of heat distress in dogs and are knowledgeable about strategies for keeping dogs cool and comfortable during walks. Whether it’s finding a shady spot to rest or avoiding hot surfaces, we take every precaution to make sure your dog stays safe and happy while in our care.
It’s also important to keep your dog’s paws in mind. Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paw pads, so try to stick to shaded areas or grassy surfaces whenever possible. You might even consider investing in some protective booties for your dog if you plan on doing a lot of walking on hot surfaces.
Finally, pay attention to your dog’s behavior. If they start panting excessively or seem lethargic, it might be time to take a break and find a cooler spot. And of course, never leave your dog in a hot car – even with the windows cracked, temperatures can rise quickly and become dangerous for your furry friend. In summary, summer walks can be a lot of fun for you and your pup, but it’s important to take extra care to keep them cool and comfortable. Be mindful of the time of day you’re walking, bring plenty of water and take frequent breaks, avoid hot surfaces, and pay attention to your dog’s behavior. We want you and your furry friend to have a great time while staying safe and cool! If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog safely exercised, contact us today to set up an appointment to meet with our Out of House Team to see if summer (and autumn!) walks with your fuzzy family member will work great for you!