Summer is here, bringing warmer weather, fun outdoor activities, and the perfect time for dogs to get outside and move. There are lots of ways to have fun with your pet this summer, here are five simple tips for everyone and their pets to love summer.
Summer Dog Safety
Keeping your dog safe through the summer heat is incredibly important. If your dog is showing signs of struggling with the heat, we strongly advocate seeking immediate veterinary advice and not attempting to cool them down too quickly. All dogs are different, so it’s important to speak to your vet to ascertain the appropriate advice for your dog and their individual needs.
Get Out and Exercise
Enjoying the summer weather is a great way to keep active with your dog, but take care in high heat, try to keep exercise regular and easy, aiming for consistent, steady walks on grass or cool surfaces. On hot days, dogs should avoid over-exertion and may be less inclined to run, jump or climb. Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day; try to walk your dog in the early morning and evening, which are generally the cooler times of the day.
Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water and keep the water bowl filled. Your dog’s water bowl should be easy to access.
Introduce cool summer treats throughout the day to cool your pup down. Check online for recipes for dog-safe recipes for homemade popsicles and other tasty summer pup treats.
Watch the Heat
Take care if considering travel with your dog, especially in a hot car. Even with the windows cracked, it can be fatal to leave a dog in the car on a summer day. When taking your dog for a walk, always touch the pavement with your hand and hold it in place for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand there comfortably, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. According to AKC guidance, when the air temperature is 85 degrees, the pavement temperature can register at 135 degrees. Consider summer shoes for walks or stick to grass or cooler surfaces.
Keep Your Dog Cool
During summer heatwaves, focus on keeping your dog cool and comfortable, rather than trying to stick to your usual exercise routine. When inside with no air conditioning, aim a fan directly at your dog and keep them out of direct sunlight.
Check the Dog’s Mobility
Look for visible signs of stiffness in the morning or after resting; slowing down on walks; reluctance to get out of bed, go up or down the stairs; lethargy; grumpiness during or after walks, or even when being petted.
Provide High-Quality Dog Hip and Joint Supplements, like YuMOVE
This will help give extra support for a dog’s hips and joints and help maintain or support their mobility. YuMOVE, the UK’s #1 veterinary hip and joint supplement brand*, already supports over two million dogs a year globally*. For years, YuMOVE has been providing a high-quality dog hip and joint supplement that’s scientifically proven to work in just six weeks.* There’s also a 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee*, if you are not satisfied.
