The Summer season is nearly upon us! Most of us can’t wait.
Don’t forget your canine companion(s) as some of them with the onset of summer is not always as appreciative. Hot days and long journeys can make the summer months something of a chore for some dogs, but doesn’t have to be the case.

Many Thanks to our friends from Dog’s Corner for sponsoring this Summer Fun With Your Dog post and helped us put together these 5 Tips to Ensure that Your Dog Remains Fit, Healthy and Happy During the Summer Months.

1) Hydrate – You should always ensure that your dog has access to water at all times. Make sure you change the water regularly so it remains fresh. It is important to keep your dog hydrated especially when going for a walk and/or traveling. I’ve shared with you on previous post that I have a “problem” of not drinking enough water. I’m been a picky drinker. Recently, mom made some Fruity Berry Ice Cubes to help and entice me to drink more water. My Thirsty Milo travel bowl has been very handy on our walks/travels.

2) Heat Stroke and Sun Burn
a) Did you know dogs are susceptible to heat stoke? It is a tragedy to see in the news that every Summer season dogs die of heat stoke. Dogs should always be provided with a shady area in to which they can retreat. If your dog enjoys hanging out in your backyard, make sure to provide him/her an outdoor bed. You may use some old dog beds and place in a shady part of the garden/yard.

b) Also, over exercising in the heat can potentially be fatal. Don’t presume that your dog will know when it has had enough. Dogs can be excitable and prone to over exerting themselves, if the weather is really hot, take measures to keep them calm until the heat has passed.

c) It shouldn’t need to be repeated, but – Dogs Should NEVER Be Left In Hot Cars. A small crack left open in the window simply isn’t enough. There can be no more horrific way for a dog to die, yet each year almost unbelievably, it still happens.

d) It’s not just heatstroke that you need to watch out for, dogs can suffer from sunburn too. And just as with humans, it’s the lightest which are most likely to suffer. Tips of nose, ears, mouth and the back are the areas most likely to burn. There are a variety of sunscreen lotion for dogs. When I lived in HI, I used a local all natural essential oil lotion. If you are unsure, make sure to check with your vet.

3) Burnt Feet – If it’s not the heat from above that is causing your dog discomfort, then it’s the heat from below! The soft padding of a dog’s foot is extremely sensitive. In the summer various outside surfaces, paving in particular, can become extremely hot, causing real discomfort for your dog. Be aware of how the surfaces in your immediate surrounding react in the heat. If it’s uncomfortable to your touch, then it’s going to hurt your dog. Walking on grass instead of on cement can provide comfort for your dog’s feet. I’m still on the mend with my allergies and decided to keep wearing my purple PAWz. It is safe to wear in the summer and protects me walking on hot cement/pavement.

4) Creepy Crawlies – Ticks and fleas are prolific in the summer months. Make sure your dog is fully protected. Summer is also the time when wasps and other stingers come out to play. A sting to a dog’s mouth or throat can be potentially fatal. Keep an eye out for what your dog is up to. Compost heaps and areas where there are lots of fallen fruits can be particularly dangerous for harboring wasp, so try and keep dogs away. Always take measures to prevent your dog from accessing any wasp nests which you know about.

5) Backyard Dining– Summer backyard dining is a favorite in our house. Lots of fun but for many dogs it can pose some serious health threats. It is hard for a dog to resist a piece of freshly cooked meat. Some dog are quick to sneak up and grab a cooked meat straight off the grill, causing a dog serious burns. Be extremely careful and be aware of your dog’s presence when cooking and dining outdoors. I usually have a set place where I can sit and watch my family eat. My Golden Begging Face does absolutely nothing …

How does your dog cope with Summer? Do you have any additional tips to share?

Lots of Golden L♥VE n Woofs
SUGAR