Summer Pet Safety Guide: How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy in the

Here's your go-to guide for keeping your dog safe, happy, and healthy this summer. ☀️🐕

🦟 Tick & Flea Protection

Why it matters: Warm months are peak season for ticks and fleas, which can carry diseases like Lyme disease and tapeworms.
What to do:
Use vet-approved tick & flea preventatives (oral or topical).
Check your dog's coat and skin after walks, especially around ears, belly, and between toes.
Keep your yard trimmed and avoid tall grassy areas during hikes.

✅ Bonus Tip: Invest in a tick remover tool- it's a must-have for any pet parent.

🌡️ Watch Out for Heatstroke

Warning signs:
Heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, glazed eyes
Prevention tips:
Walk your dog during cooler hours (early morning or late evening)
Always bring water on outings
Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes

🚨 If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool place and contact your vet immediately.

💦 Hydration Is Key

Dogs can get dehydrated quickly in hot weather. Make sure they:

Have access to clean, fresh water at all times

Drink more after outdoor play or walks

Can cool down indoors with fans or cooling mats

🍉 Treat idea: Freeze dog-safe fruits (like watermelon, blueberries) for refreshing snacks!

🐾 Paw Pad Protection

Hot pavement can burn your dog's paws. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their feet.

Stick to grassy or shaded paths

Walk early/ late to avoid peak heat

Use dog booties if walking on hot surfaces is unavoidable

🔥 Pro Tip: Try the "7-second rule" - press the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can't hold it there for 7 seconds, it's too hot.

🏊 Pool & Beach Safety

Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers can tire quickly.

Supervise your dog near water

Rinse off salt or chlorine after swimming

Use a dog life vest for open water adventures

🛟 Important: Teach your dog how to exit a pool- it's not always obvious to them.

🌿 Avoid Toxic Summer Snacks

Barbecues and picnics often mean dropped foods that can harm dogs:

No grapes, onions, chocolate, alcohol, or cooked bones

Keep garbage out of reach

Watch for toxic plants like lilies or azaleas if you're in a garden

🐕 Final Thoughts:

Summer should be a time of fun, not emergency vet visits. With a little preparation and a lot of love, your dog can enjoy the season safely by your side.

So grab the leash, pack some water, and make the most of the sunshine- just don't forget the tick spray.

Summer Pet Safety Guide: How to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy in the Heat