Caring for Your Dog During The Summer

Your dog enjoys the bright warm sunshine of summer just as much as you do. While this time of year brings new possibilities, exciting outdoor adventures and plenty of opportunity to splash around in the water, there are certain measures you will want to take when caring for your dog during summer. Dog owners will be relieved to know that the following details will help provide a fun, safe and happy summer for your dog.

Canine Allergies – Summer is filled with blooming flowers, mold, fleas and much more. Your dog can develop allergies or sensitivities these common items. Symptoms of allergies in dogs include coughing, excessive scratching, sneezing, tearing of the eyes and more. If you notice that your dog is experiencing these symptoms visit a veterinarian immediately. Usually the veterinarian is able to prescribe medication such as a canine antihistamine to help relieve symptoms.

Fireworks – One of the most popular times of year that people enjoy the sight and sounds of fireworks is during summer. Your dog may enjoy this as well. They may think the fireworks that you are lighting and throwing is a toy. They may attempt to catch it in their mouth causing injury. Keep your dog a safe distance from fireworks at all times. You may want to keep your dog indoors during this type of festivities. On the other side, your dog may be fearful of the loud noise causing him or her to panic and become destructive to their surroundings. In this case you will want to provide comfort and calm for your dog. Placing them in their crate where they feel safe and turning on soft music to drown out the loud noises from fireworks is beneficial.

Campfires – Many dog owners bring their beloved dog along on camping trips. While this is a great way to bond with your dog and allow him or her to enjoy nature, you will want to keep a close eye on your dog when campfires are concerned. Remember that dogs love to play with light. Have you ever seen a dog chase a flashlight beam around the house? Your dog may be captivated by the fire and want to play around with it. Some dogs even pick up hot fire logs and run around with it thinking it is a toy. Keep your dog on a leash at all times when near a campfire.

Salt and Chemicals in the Water – Summer is the perfect time of year to go swimming, boating and surfing with your dog. If you are exposing your dog to a pool, do not allow him or her to consume the water. The chemicals in the pool water can cause an upset stomach. Salt water from the ocean can have the same negative impact on your dog’s digestive system.

Enjoy summer with your dog and create new memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Involve your dog in your summer activities and provide a safe environment at all times. You will want to keep an eye on your dog at all times to prevent injury or accidental consumption of things that can make him or her sick. Make your dog’s summer special and keep him or her safe everyday!

Photo credit: Austin Kirk/Flickr