Keep Your Dog Happy This Summer

The summer months can be uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous for people. But let’s not forget about pets – covered by thick fur, they are also having a tough time! It’s difficult enough simply to cope with rising temperatures, let alone thick humidity, but things really get tough in areas that are hit with the double blow of intense heat and storm-caused power outages, sometimes with tragic results.

Never ever, leave your pets in a parked car – not even for a minute. Not even with the car running and air conditioner on. On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. On an 85-degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees.

Limit exercise on hot days – take care when exercising your pet. Adjust intensity and duration of exercise in accordance with the temperature. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk your dog on the grass if possible or invest in some dog booties. Always carry water with you to keep your dog from dehydrating.

Cool your pet inside and out – Whip up a batch of quick and easy DIY peanut butter popsicles for dogs. (You can use peanut butter or another favorite food.) And always provide water, whether your pets are inside or out with you.

Animals are at particular risk for heat stroke if they are very old, very young, and overweight, not conditioned to prolonged exercise, or have heart or respiratory disease. Some breeds of dogs—like boxers, pugs, shih Tzu’s, and other dogs and cats with short muzzles—will have a much harder time breathing in extreme heat. Regardless of what breed and size is your dog, always carry water with you.

For more tips on how to keep your dog smiling visit My Dog Spot at www.mydogspot.info or call (626) 399-1951.