Here's a short summer guide to dog care, along with the most important concerns all pet owners should be wary of.

1. KEEPING YOUR DOGS
COMFORTABLE AND SAFE THIS
SUMMER
A short guide and a list of do’s and don’ts

2. As seasons change, so do the needs of our canine
companions. Summer is coming in a month, and we
will once again be taking vacations and hitting the
beaches.

3. Before you make plans though, be sure to consider
Fido’s needs. If you’re not going anywhere in the
next couple of months, there are also certain
situations you need to prepare for and matters you
need to be reminded about.

4. Let’s cut to the chase and learn about certain aspects
and situations you need to be wary of during the hot
spell.

5. SWIMMING PRECAUTIONS
Photo from Eva Walser

6.  Take note that most dogs aren’t gifted swimmers.
Breeds like dachshunds, basset hound, bulldogs,
boxers and greyhounds aren’t equipped with bodies
fit for swimming.
 If it’s your dog’s first time to swim, be sure to
“teach” them and take the necessary precautions,
even if he or she is a retriever or a terrier.
 Start in a shallow pool or a pond. Do not throw
them into the middle of a swimming pool and hope
for the best, as this is extremely dangerous.
 Be wary of the heat: don’t let your canine
companion stay in the water and exposed to the
sun for too long or he will suffer from heatstroke.

7.  Be sure that your dog dries up completely after
swimming. Check the ears and be sure that there is
no excess water inside.
 There are accessories, like dog life jackets, which
can help pets stay afloat.
 Some dogs may naturally be afraid of water, so
contact a local trainer if you are determined to
teach him or her to do so.
 Here’s an adorable video of a Labrador swimming
with dolphins.

8. HEATSTROKE
Photo by Lux Valens

9.  Heatstroke cases in the United States are always
on the rise, and this always leads to canine
fatalities.
 Basically, this occurs when dogs are subjected to
extreme heat for long intervals, may it be during
walks, swimming, or being in a hot, enclosed space
for a period of time.
 Symptoms include heavy panting, drooling, inability
to control the bowels, rapid breathing, weakness,
bright red gums and tongue (white and blue in
advanced stages), and labored breathing.

10. AVOID HEATSTROKE BY….
 NOT leaving your dogs inside your car. Cars can
become a portable furnace in a hurry. Try sitting inside
your car on a hot summer day on a parking lot, and
you’ll know why hundreds of dogs die in the United
States each year because of this.
 Leaving your dogs at home during trips to the grocery
store.
 Walking your dogs early in the morning or late in the
afternoon.
 Limiting outdoor activities when the sun is up and
glaring.
 Once your dog displays the symptoms, immediately see
your veterinarian, as this is an emergency.

11. DOG FUR CONCERNS
Photo by Sannse

12.  Since it’s hot, it makes sense to trim your dog’s fur
to make him or her feel cooler, right? WRONG.
 Dog coats are insulators, and can actually keep
your pet cool during summer and protects them
from sunburn.
 Shaving or carelessly trimming the coat can lead to
discomfort and even overheating.
 Instead of trimming the hair on your own, have a
professional dog groomer do it for you.

13. OTHER CONCERNS
 If you’re planning to go out of the city or country,
hire a pet sitting service or leave him with a friend,
neighbor or any of your family members.
 Paved concrete can scald your pet’s paws, so be
sure to check if the pathways are safe and cool
enough to walk on.
 Ensure that your dog gets enough water to drink.
 Provide a cool area for them to lounge on at home!