Vet Approved Summer Safety Guide for Dogs: Keep Your Pup Cool & Happy in 2025 ☀️🐶

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Summer is a time for outdoor adventures with your furry friend. 🐶 However, the season also brings specific challenges that can affect your dog's health and well-being. This guide offers comprehensive, vet-approved tips to ensure your dog enjoys a safe and fun summer. 🐾

🌡️ Understanding Heat Risks

Dogs are susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Unlike humans, they primarily regulate body temperature through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. 🐾 This makes them vulnerable to overheating.

Signs of Heatstroke Include:

• Excessive panting and drooling 😰
• Rapid heartbeat ❤️
• Vomiting or diarrhea 🤢
• Weakness or collapse 🛑
• Disorientation or seizures ⚠️

If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area, provide water, and contact your veterinarian immediately. 🩺

🕒 Optimal Times for Walks

Schedule walks during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. 🌅 This helps prevent overheating and protects your dog's paws from hot surfaces.

🐾 Protecting Paws

Hot pavement can burn your dog's paw pads. To test the surface, place the back of your hand on it for 7 seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Consider using dog booties or walking on grass. 🌿

🚗 Never Leave Dogs in Cars

Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with windows cracked. This can lead to fatal heatstroke. Always take your dog with you or leave them at home in a cool environment. ❄️

🧴 Sun Protection

Dogs can get sunburned, especially those with short or light-colored coats. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose and ears. Avoid human sunscreens, as they may contain harmful ingredients. 🧴

💧 Ensuring Hydration

Always provide access to fresh, cool water. During outings, carry a portable water bowl and offer water regularly. Dehydration can occur quickly in the heat. 💦

🌿 Avoiding Toxic Substances

Be cautious of antifreeze leaks, which can be more common in summer due to overheating vehicles. Antifreeze is highly toxic to dogs. Also, keep your dog away from areas treated with fertilizers or pesticides. ☠️

🏊 Water Safety

Not all dogs are natural swimmers. If your dog enjoys water activities, ensure they wear a life jacket and are supervised at all times. Be cautious of strong currents and provide a safe exit point from pools or lakes. 🦺

🦟 Pest Prevention

Summer is peak season for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Use veterinarian-recommended preventatives to protect your dog from vector-borne diseases. 🐜

📱 Consult with Veterinary Professionals

For personalized advice and support, consult with veterinary professionals through the Ask A Vet app. 📲 They can provide guidance tailored to your dog's specific needs. 🐶

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for your beloved pet. 🐾❤️