Hot Weather and Dogs

As we inch closer into the summer season, we want to take a moment to discuss the health concerns that we have with keeping dogs outside in the increasing hot temperatures. 

We are all about dogs getting fresh air and exercise in the fenced-in yard. After all, animals have been waiting for weeks for the opportunity to play outside; and now, their time has come. 

The weather is hot; and dogs are wearing a fur coat 24/7. While the first thought would be for pet owners to shave dogs, this can present a problem for their skin as the warm sun heats up on them. Be sure to apply dog-approved sunscreen to dogs, if out for long periods of time. In addition, have dogs wear a tick and flea collar, as ticks are out-and-about most during the spring and summer months (and yes, dogs can get Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses). Make sure to give dogs plenty of cold, fresh drinking water and a hiding spot from the shade - be it a dog house or back door for them to seek shelter from the elements.

This is a great time of year to be a dog; but it is also a scary time for pet owners - worrying about heat stroke and other summer health risks for dogs.