By BarkUpToday

If you love being around your furry best friends, then days spent on the beach or a boat will include them. Dogs love water, and there are many ways to enjoy the water with them during the hot summer months, like in a backyard pool, playing in the waves at the beach, taking part in dock diving as a dog sport, and boating in canoes and yachts. You can also train for a few beach-safe behaviors with basic obedience classes like recall.

Most fun activities you do on the beach with your pup include off-leash activities, so it’s always best to train your pup first with basic obedience so that you’re 100% sure that your dog will come to you when called. If your pup is still getting ready for this type of dog beach freedom, start with on-leash activities like a walk on the beach.

“Leave it” is another important cue that your pup should learn so he doesn’t consume garbage on the beach. This command can prevent your dog from ingesting harmful substances, ensuring a safe and enjoyable beach outing. By mastering “leave-it,” you’ll have better control over your dog’s actions, reducing the risk of digestive issues or poisoning from discarded items.

Also, if your pup is not used to being around crowds, try visiting the beach early on weekday mornings when it’s less crowded. This will help your dog acclimate to the environment more comfortably and reduce stress.

Ensure Your Dog Stays Hydrated

Bring Plenty of Fresh Water

Hydration is crucial for your dog’s health, especially in hot weather. Always bring more water than you think you’ll need and a portable dog bowl to ensure your dog can always access fresh, cool water.

” Dehydration can occur more quickly because they get hot faster and do not sweat. Understanding the threat of dehydration and how your pet responds to it can help you avoid it,” explains Nutrena. Signs of dehydration include the following:

• Lethargy
• Dry mouth
• Sunken eyes, shock, and collapse

Provide Shade and Protect Their Paws

Set Up a Shady Spot

Dogs can quickly overheat in direct sunlight. Set up a beach umbrella or pop-up tent to give your dog a shady area to rest and cool down. Be familiar with how hot the sand can become in a short amount of time.

Protect Their Paws from Hot Sand

Sand can become extremely hot and burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog during the more excellent parts of the day, and consider using dog booties for added protection.

Use Sunscreen and Monitor Heat Levels

Apply Pet-Safe Sunscreen

Dogs can get sunburned, particularly those with light-colored fur or exposed skin. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to sensitive areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Animal Wellness magazine adds that you should choose one that offers both UVA and UVB protection, and is pet specific. “Never use a product that contains PABA, as it can be fatal if licked off.

“Veterinarians recommend sunshirts for dogs and say that these sunshirts are great for dogs that enjoy swimming and boating. These sun shirts will keep your pets calm during the summer.

Keep an Eye on Temperature and Humidity

Be mindful of the temperature and humidity levels. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Monitor your dog for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. Keep your dog in shaded areas as much as possible.

Follow Beach Rules and Practice Water Safety

Know the Beach Regulations

Different beaches have different rules regarding dogs. Follow any leash laws and only take your dog to designated pet-friendly areas. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all beachgoers.

Ensure Water Safety

Not all dogs are natural swimmers. If your dog is not a strong swimmer, use a dog life vest and always supervise them in the water. This helps prevent drowning and ensures your pet’s safety. Also, understand water conditions. Dogs are only sometimes able to handle rough waters of fast currents.

Never allow your dog into the water with heavy ocean or river currents. Water is deceiving, so if you’re camping, consult locals about riptides and dangerous currents before letting your dog swim in any unknown body of water.

Clean Up After Your Dog

Always bring waste bags and clean up after your dog to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone. This is not only considerate but also helps maintain a healthy environment.

Puppy Water Safety Tips

If you’re bringing your new puppy to the beach for the first time, try to make this a brief introduction to water and sand and keep your puppy on a leash until he’s obedience trained. The ideal conditions will be early weekday mornings when it’s not too busy or hot.

Pack a Pet First Aid Kit

Bring a pet first aid kit to prepare for minor injuries. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers to handle minor emergencies. This will ensure you’re ready for any unexpected situations.

Car Safety for Dogs in Summer

Ensuring dogs’ safety in cars during the summer months is crucial to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related health issues. The ASPCA says that even if your windows are cracked, leaving your dogs in a car is never safe for a second.

” Not only can leaving an animal in a hot car lead to fatal heat stroke, it is illegal in several states! ” To better understand the signs of heatstroke in dogs, symptoms include the following:

• Drooling
• Mild weakness
• Excessive panting
• Stupor
• Collapse

Pugs and other brachycephalic dog breeds are more prone to heat stroke because they cannot pant like different dog breeds. Overweight and senior dogs should also not be exposed to hot summer conditions and must be kept indoors with air conditioning.

Here are some essential tips to keep your dog safe and comfortable:

• Never Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Parked Car: On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can rapidly rise to dangerous levels. Even when it’s only 80 degrees outside, the inside of a car can heat up to more than 120 degrees within minutes. This can cause severe heatstroke, brain damage, or even death. Always take your dog when you leave the car.
• Provide Adequate Ventilation: Ensure the car is well-ventilated if your dog must stay inside for a short period. Use air conditioning or keep the windows open while the vehicle is in motion. Parking under shade and using a sunshade can also help keep the car cooler.
• Use Cooling Aids: Place ice packs wrapped in a towel in your dog’s crate, or use a cooling pad to help keep them cool. A portable fan can also help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the car.
• Stay Hydrated: Always bring fresh water and a bowl for your dog. Offer water frequently to prevent dehydration, especially during long trips.
• Limit Car Rides During Peak Heat Hours: Plan trips during the more excellent parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to reduce the risk of overheating. Avoid strenuous activities during these trips.
• Recognize Signs of Heatstroke: Be aware of signs of heatstroke in dogs, including excessive panting, drooling, rapid pulse, and lethargy. If your dog shows these symptoms, move them to a cooler area immediately and seek veterinary assistance.

By following these tips, you can ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable while traveling in the car during the summer months. We also recommend visiting your vet first if you plan on participating in dog sports during the summer to keep injuries to a minimum. Heat can be an issue with any dog sport or outdoor activity, and safety precautions are crucial to pet safety.

How to Protect Your Pets From The Summer Heat

Video Credit: WSLS 10

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