It's summer...Keep your dog hydrated.

Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe in the summertime.

Avoid Hot Pavement

Did you know pavement and sidewalks can get extremely hot? Imagine how that must feel on your pup’s paws. True, their pads are tough but they can still burn on hot surfaces.

Try to take your dog for a walk in shadier areas, on the grass or at times of the day when the sun’s heat isn’t as strong.

Keep Out of Hot Cars

We can’t hear it enough….hot cars and pets don’t mix.

Even on relatively cool summer days, a car’s interior can heat up to dangerous temperatures. A small crack in the windows isn’t going to be enough to give your pet adequate ventilation.

Leave your dog or cat at home if you think you’re going to need to leave him outside in the car. And, skip the errands if you have your cat with you in their carrier. Those small, enclosed spaces can get extra hot! 

Provide Extra Water

Hydration is important year-round but especially in the summer months. Keep multiple bowls of water around your home and outside, if your pet likes to hang out in the yard. Your dog needs 1 ounce of water for each pound of body weight - e.g. a 10lbs Chihuahua would need to drink 10 oz. of water every day.

You can also pour rehydrated bone broth on your dog or cat's food for some extra flavor and hydration or increase the amount of canned food you are feeding to add more moisture to his diet.

Make Sure There are Shady Areas

If your dog or cat likes to be outside for long stretches of time in the warmer months, make sure you pay attention to where the sun and shade are at certain times of the day.

Your pet may have lots of shade in the morning but only a little sliver in the afternoon!

Groom Your Pet Regularly

Brush your dog or cat's coat frequently in the summer to rid them of loose hair and to dislodge dirt and other debris that they may pick up while spending more time outside.

This also helps keep you on top of fleas and ticks that are more abundant in summer weather.

What are some ways you keep your pets cool and safe in the summertime?