The warm weather season is an enjoyable time for all, but can be dangerous for dogs if the necessary precautions are not taken when the weather heats up. There are many simple ways to protect your dog from the heat even if you have little to no experience with training dogs. Below are a few hot weather tips to keep your dog healthy this season.
Proper grooming is a necessity for the comfort of your dog when dealing with the heat. Trimming your dog’s fur can help keep your dog cool when the weather warms up. For an accurate comparison, imagine wearing a full fur coat when it’s 80 degrees outside. As you can guess, having a heavy layer of fur can be incredibly cumbersome and can increase your pet’s risk of suffering from heatstroke. Dogs are just as prone to sunburns as humans so it’s not recommended you shave him past one inch above the skin.
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Another important factor to keep in mind when taking precautions in the heat is to ensure that fresh, clean water is available to your pet at all times. All dogs are prone to dehydration when their water supply is low.
It’s also smart to provide a shady place outside for your pet to escape from the heat. Even with sufficient water, a dog can still become overheated when he’s out in the sun for a long period of time without a hiding place. If it’s excessively hot, it’s recommended you keep your dog indoors.
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Despite the heat, it’s important to regularly exercise your dog. The asphalt can heat up quickly, which can be painful for your dog’s paw pads, so make sure to not linger in one spot for too long. Walk your dog during the early morning and evening hours when the air is cooler. If you must exercise during the hottest hours of the day, keep the walk short to prevent your dog from overheating.
By following these tips, you can keep your dog happy and healthy in the heat. For more health tips, consult your local veterinarian.
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