Top 5 Summer Safety Tips

The unofficial start of summer has come and gone, and we are already enjoying summer.  Extra light in the evenings to fit in an extra walk, days perfect for the beach or pool, and food fresh from our gardens and farmers markets.  But there are a few things that you should be extra careful of during this hot season.

1. Don't let your dog drink from the pool.  Excessive pool chemicals can cause stomach upset.  Also make sure that there are dog-accessible steps and that your dog knows where they are so your dog can get out if they fall in.  Only allow pool access when supervised.
2. Never leave your dog in a car alone.  It takes minutes for the car to heat up to deadly temperatures, even in the shade, even with windows cracked.
3. Remember that pavement soaks up heat!  As it gets hotter, you may want to walk your dog on dirt instead of pavement, in the shade, or in the morning.  You can also use dog booties!
4. Short-faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs are not efficient at cooling themselves.  You will need to keep them out of the heat and sun and monitor for signs of overheating.
5. Make sure your dog is always well hydrated by keeping fresh water with your dog at all times.  Use an insulated bowl to keep it cooler longer.