With the weather heating up, chances are you’ll be spending more time outside with your pooch. That makes these outdoor safety tips for dogs more important than ever. While we often think of winter as being the most dangerous season for our pups, summer comes with plenty of its own hazards. These safety tips will help make sure your dog enjoys the summer as much as you do!
Related: Putting Together a First Aid Kit for a New Dog
Outdoor Safety Tips for Dogs
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Sunburn
Did you know that dogs can get a sunburn just like we can? Yup, they sure can, and this is especially true for dogs with short hair or light-colored fur. To prevent sunburn, apply sunscreen
Dehydration
Dehydration is common in dogs that like to run and play outdoors for a period without drinking enough water. Signs of dehydration in a dog includes excessive drooling, dry gums, and loss of skin elasticity. You certainly don’t want to let things get to this point, so be sure to provide them with access to cold, fresh water. It is also important that your dog has access to shade spots so they can take a break from the sun.
Keeping cool
Dehydration and sunburn aren’t the only concerns during hot weather. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can happen to our canine companions too. As mentioned above, giving your dog access to shade is important. Another idea: get one of those plastic kiddie pools and fill it with cold water. Check out these dog pool ideas to help you pick the best one. Just make sure you supervise his water fun if you go with one of the bigger options (or if you have a small dog).
Dangerous plants
There are some outdoor plants that are potentially hazardous for dogs. For instance, certain flower garden plants like the leaves and roots of an Iris and the seeds and roots of a Morning Glory are dangerous. Other examples include the leaves of Rhubarb, the entire Buttercup plant and the leaves of Foxglove.
Bee stings
Many dogs like to run and chase bees, as they are unaware of their potential dangers. If your dog is stung by a bee, the symptoms will vary from mild skin irritations to severe swelling. It is important to notify your veterinarian in the event your dog is stung by a bee. Also, remember that other insects such as ants and spider can also bite your dog.
Following these outdoor safety tips for dogs will go a long way to keeping your pooch healthier and happier during the summer. Just remember one critical thing: if it’s way too hot for you outside, it’s way too hot for your furry friend. Bring him inside to enjoy the AC (or the fan!) with you.
