Pets Care: 10 Essential Summer Care Tips for Your Dog

Pets Care – It’s start of summer all over Pakistan and extreme heat can affect people and animals as well. Karachi, along with other parts of Pakistan, is currently experiencing a heat wave, so it is important to protect not only ourselves but also animals and pets from extreme heat. This detailed article is for pet dog owners, animal care professionals, volunteers, and anyone who wants to learn more about dog care tips to keep their dog safe during the summer months.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds in the World 

1 – Keep Them Hydrated

All dogs breeds, like humans, need proper hydration in the summer. Dogs can quickly dehydrate when exposed to high temperatures, so make sure fresh water is always available for your pet. Also, consider providing several water containers or bowls in different locations to ensure easy access. It is recommended to add ice cubes to the water to keep it cold for a long time.

2 – Keep Them Cool Under Shaded Environment

Dogs need a comfortable and shady place to rest and cool off on hot summer days. Create a place in your home where your dog can rest and retreat from the heat. Make sure you have enough shade through trees or by using a canopy or umbrella. If your dog spends a lot of time under sun or outside, consider investing in a shaded dog house or creating a shaded. This will provide a good place to relax and avoid direct exposure to the sun.

3 – Protect Your Dog’s Paws

Burning hot roads and sand can be very uncomfortable and harmful to your dog’s paws. Before you go for a walk, put your hand on the road for a few seconds and check the temperature of the ground. If it feels too hot for your hands, it’s also too hot for your dog’s paws. Instead, go out for a walk in the morning or evening when the road or walking area is cooler. If this is not possible, get some dog booties to protect his paws from the hot surface.

4 – Exercise is the Key for Pets Care

While regular exercise is important for the overall health of our dogs, it is important to adjust your exercise routine during the summer. Avoid vigorous activity during the hottest hours when temperatures are at their peak. Again, choose an early morning or late afternoon tour when it’s cooler.

5 – Protect from Heatstroke

This is one of the very important pet care tips. As with humans, hot weather is a serious and potentially dangerous for dogs as well. Here are some heatstroke symptoms:

• Excessive Panting
• Drooling
• Weakness 
• Vomiting or Diarrhea
• Collapsing 

Do not leave your dog in a parked car for several minutes to prevent overheating. If your dog is traveling with you in car, ensure proper ventilation and never leave it unattended. If you suspect some heatstroke, immediately move your dog to a cool area, provide water, and contact your veterinarian for further assistance.

6 – Signs of Overheating (Pets Care)

Although heat and overheating can be used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two, with heatstroke being a more serious condition.

Even with all the precautions and problems, it is important to be alert and watch for signs of overheating in your dog. Some common symptoms are:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Red or Pale Gums 
• Rapid Heartbeat
• Dizziness 
• Disorientation 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Immediately move your dog to a cool place, give him water to drink, and use a cool towel or wet cloth to lower his body temperature. Consult your veterinarian for further guidance and medical assistance if necessary.

7 – Grooming and Sun Protection

Proper grooming can help keep your dog comfortable in the summer. Wash the coat regularly to remove hair and lint, which can inhibit airflow and contribute to overheating. However, do not brush your dog’s coat because it protects the fur from the sun’s harmful rays.

8 – Preventing Parasites and Insects

Monsoon, hot and humid, is the ideal time for parasites and insects that can pose a health risk to your dog. Make sure the dog is up to date on flea, tick and heartworm preventatives, because these pests thrive in warm weather. Check your dog’s coat regularly after outdoor activity and remove it immediately with the appropriate tool or consult your veterinarian. Also, consider using pet-friendly insect repellent to protect your dog from fleas, ticks, and other pesky insects.

9 – Diet Plan (Pets Care)

Your dog’s nutritional needs can change during the summer. Dogs are more active in hot weather, so it is important to adjust food intake accordingly to prevent weight gain or weight loss. Ask your vet to determine the amount of food and consider switching to a high-quality dog ​​food specially formulated for summer or for dehydrated dogs. You can also offer frozen treats or serve frozen fruits and vegetables as healthy and refreshing snacks.

10 – Keep Your Dog Engaged Indoors

On very hot days, it’s best to keep your dog indoors to prevent heat-related problems. However, offer your dog an interactive games that can be mentally stimulating and fun to keep him active. You can also engage in indoor workouts or play gentle games to keep your mind and body active.

Conclusion (Pets Care)

Taking care of your dog in the summer requires extra attention and precautions to ensure his well-being in hot weather. You can keep your pets safe and comfortable by following dog care tips such as ensuring proper hydration, creating a cool and shaded environment, protecting their paws, preventing heatstroke, proper grooming, and watching for signs of overheating. Also don’t forget to adjust your exercise routine, prevent parasites and insects, adjust your diet, and work indoors on very hot days. Moreover, by keeping these guidelines in mind, you and your dog can enjoy a happy and healthy summer together.

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