Beat the Heat- How to Keep Your Pet Dog’s Summer Safe in 2024

We often come across reels and stories on social media, which show how a dog is sitting in front of a table fan or chilling in an AC room and won't budge out of the room. We may laugh at it while scrolling but this is a serious problem. Dogs are bothered by scorching summer heat the same way as humans do. Sometimes even more. Older pets, pets with thick coats, short noses, and pets adapted to cooler climates are most affected by the heat. It is important to take extra care of your furry companion and keep them protected from the blistering heat. As a responsible pet parent, ensure to have dog insurance coverage.

Tips to Keep Your Pet Dog Safe This Summer 2023

Remember your pet dog does not sweat the same way humans generally do. Dogs easily become overheated. Follow these 8 summer safety tips for your tips to help them remain summer safe:

1. Keep Your Pet Dog Hydrated: Give your furry companion plenty of water. Notice the sign of dehydration such as excessive drooling, dry gums, etc. Keep the water bowl in a place where it is easily accessible for the dog. You may also look at adding playing in the water to your dog’s playtime. This will help lower their body temperature. Ensure that your pet has access to clean water. When going outside, carry a bottle for your dog as well as you do for yourself. Also, look at increasing their fluid intake, if possible.
2. Provide Shade: Keep your pet dog in the shade as much as possible specifically when it's hot outside. Sunbathe is good, however; direct sunlight can overheat the dog and sometimes often lead to a heart stroke. Some general symptoms of overheating are vomiting, wobbly legs, etc. Generally, dogs drink water or pant to bring down their body temperature.
3. Mindful Walking/Exercise: Avoid exercising or limit exercises in summer. Keep in mind the temperature while deciding the intensity and the duration of the exercises. You may either take your pet dog for a walk either early in the morning or late in the evening. Don’t stay too far from the drinking water.
4. Do Not Leave Your Pet Dog Alone: If you are taking your dog outside, avoid leaving them alone in the parked vehicle. Even with the windows open, your dog can be affected by strong heat. In case you have to go out of the car, always leave the dog in the car with the AC turned on, yet, it's not the best thing to do.
5. Avoid Shaving Your Pet: It's important to understand that the dog’s coat is naturally designed that keep it cool during the summer season and warm in the winter. You may trim the fur but never shave. Ensure to leave a complete inch of hair to secure your pet’s skin from sunburns. You should always take care of your pet dog’s regular grooming, regardless of the season.
6. Keep Their Paws Cool: The pet dog heat and cools from the bottom up. Keep your pet dog off of hot surfaces like asphalt and cement. In case, they do, it can burn their paws and also increase body temperature leading to overheating.
7. Apply Sunscreen: Yes, believe it or not! Dogs too get sunburn just as humans. If your dog has a short or light hair coat they are prone to having a sunburn. Ensure to apply sunscreen at the least hair-covered spots such as the nose, ears and bellies. Some sunscreens are pet friendly, you must consult a veterinarian for the same. Sunscreens will protect your dog’s skin from extreme sun damage.
8. Protection from Pests: The mosquitoes and ticks are at their peak during the summer season. You may also consult a veterinary and understand the various preventatives available in the market.

In a Nutshell

Summers also call for power outages. Be prepared with a plan for your dog if in case such a situation arises. Besides, watch for signs of heart stroke like excessive panting and/or salivating, etc. Ensure to have the veterinary details handy. Most importantly buy a pet dog insurance policy that offers cover for vet visits and other medical procedures prescribed to them. Your pet dog is an integral part of your family. Summers can be a really difficult time for them and with extra care and affection you can help them have a happy summer season.   *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.