Keeping Dogs Cool

10 Cool Tips

Summer is here and that means coping with hot, hazy, humid days. Sunscreen and bottled water are great ways for us to fight this type of weather, but what about our canine companions? Many people don't realize that dogs need special care during the summer months just like we do. The American Kennel Club (AKC), the nation's leading authority on purebred dogs, offers 10 hot tips to ensure that your dog has a cool summer.

 

1. Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or in a closed vehicle. This can cause heat stroke and possibly death.

 

2. Avoid strenuous activities with your dog during extremely hot periods of the day.

 

3. Make sure that plants and fertlizers within your dog's reach are not toxic. Also, keep your dog off the lawn for at least 24 hours after any chemical application.

 

4. Beware of insect bites. Make sure your first aid kit has benadryl for any allergic reactions, If your dog has severe wasp, bee or mosquito bites, take him to the vet.

 

5. When taking your dog to the beach, make sure there is plenty of fresh water and shade.

 

6. Dog's can get sunburned just like humans, so limit your dog's exposure to the hot sun and apply sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.

 

7. Be careful not to let your dog spend too much time onhot sand or asphalt. Dogs can burn their feet just as easily as we can.

 

8. Cool ocean water is very tempting to a dog. Don't allow your dog to drink too much sea water.

 

9. Check with lifeguards for daily water conditions. Dogs can be easy targets for jellyfish and sea lice.

 

10. Swimming is a great form of exercise for dogs, but don't let them overdo it. They will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.

 

If you would like more information on purebred dogs, or would like a free AKC brochure on Canine Summer Safety Tips, write to the AKC at 5580 Centerview Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27606-3390; call (919) 233-9767; fax (919) 233-3627; of E-mail to info@akc.org.