Summer is here and your dog could be at risk of heat stroke. Make sure you protect your pooch from the sun's hot rays and the best protection is prevention. Here's how to to prevent your dog from getting heatstroke.
1. Never Leave your Dog in the Car
Even if it's for two minutes, you must never leave your dog in the car. Temperatures can raise to dangerous levels quickly in the car on a hot summer day, even if the windows are rolled down.
2. Seek Out Shade and Water
When your dog is outside make sure there's plenty of shade and water available for when your dog gets hot. If the temperatures get too high, try and keep your pup inside with the AC on.
3. Beware of the Pavement
Be cautious walking your dog outside in the sun. The asphalt can get sizzling hot and can burn the bottom of your dog's paws. Avoid sidewalks in the middle of the day and seek out softer ground to walk on like grass.
4. Limit Exercise
Avoid exercising your dog during the middle of the day. The middle of the day is the hottest and your dog could easily become overheated if he or she is running around. You can still play fetch or take your dog on a walk during the summer, but try to do it during the cooler parts of the day, such as morning or late afternoon.
5. Provide a Kiddie Pool
If you have a yard, put a kiddie pool in the back. All you need to do is purchase a cheap plastic pool and fill it up with a hose. Sit back and relax on a lawn chair and watch your dog play in the water and cool off.