Summer has arrived — the perfect time for sunshine, beach days, and surfing adventures. If you’re traveling with your dog, it's essential to be mindful of heat-related risks and discomfort. While you might be in a bikini, your furry friend is still wearing a full fur coat. As a responsible pet owner, you should understand your dog's normal body temperature, recognize signs of overheating, and know how to keep them cool and comfortable. Whether you're on a trip or just enjoying outdoor activities at home, taking the right precautions can make all the difference for your dog's health and happiness. In this article, we share five summer safety tips to keep your dog healthy and happy during the hot summer.
Keep Them Cool With Plenty of Shade and Fresh Water
When spending time outside, make sure your dog has plenty of shade to stay cool. Summer heat can rise quickly — especially if their water bowl is metal — so keep their fresh water topped up at all times. Dogs don’t cool down like humans, so they rely heavily on water and shade to regulate their temperature. If your dog seems overheated, try a wet towel or ice pack on their head. Setting up sprinklers, a small pool, or giving them access to air conditioning can also help keep them comfortable in the heat.
Hot Weather Rule: Walk Early or Late
Staying active is important, but during peak heat, less is more. Swap long walks for quick strolls, and plan your outings in the cooler morning or evening hours to help your pup stay cool and protect their paws from scorching sidewalks. When you're both back inside, there's another summer struggle to deal with — more frequent bathroom breaks. Combine that with heat and humidity, and you've got the perfect setup for odors and bacteria. Keep things clean and stress-free with HoneyCare's disposable training pads. They're ultra-absorbent, leak-proof, and built to control odors — perfect for summer days when fresh and dry just feels better.
Keep Your Pup Well-Groomed
Regular brushing helps remove excess fur, allowing better airflow so your dog stays cooler and more comfortable. Just avoid shaving their coat too short — their fur actually shields them from sunburn and helps regulate body temperature.
Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car
Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can rise fast, turning it into a dangerous oven for your dog. Just a few minutes alone can lead to serious heatstroke or worse. If you’re running errands, it’s safer to leave your pup at home in a cool, comfortable place. Protect your furry friend — never risk leaving them unattended in the car.
Know the Signs of Overheating
- Excessive panting and drooling
- Tiredness or lethargy
- Red gums or bright red tongue
- Rapid heartbeat
- Trouble walking or lack of coordination
- Vomiting, collapse, or seizures
What to Do If Your Dog Is Overheating
- Move your dog to a cooler spot
- Use a fan to improve airflow
- Gently run cool (not cold) water over their body
- Call your vet if symptoms persist or worsen
- Heatstroke can be serious but acting fast can save your pup.
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