The “dog days” of summer typically refer to the hot and humid summer days we spend hiding inside in the air conditioning. Most people know to stay out of the sun during peak hours, wear sunblock, and stay hydrated on days like this, but did you know there are also things you should be doing to protect your puppy?
The Grand Rapids puppy adoption experts at The Barking Boutique have provided the following tips on how to keep your puppies safe during the dog days of summer include:
- Make sure to provide access to fresh, clean water. Puppies (and dogs) need between half an ounce and one ounce of water per pound. For example, if your pup weighs 10 pounds, that’s five-ten ounces of water a day. That being said, if it’s a really hot day out or if you exercised your puppy more than normal, don’t be afraid to give them a little extra water.
- Limit exercise on very hot days. Some breeds, like bulldogs and other dogs with short snouts, can overheat easily.
- Spend time outdoors in the morning or evening when the sun is less intense.
- Keep paws on grass, if possible, instead of blacktop. Puppy paws can burn! If you need to walk your dog on hot pavement, buy booties to help keep those pads safe.
- Keep puppies in the shade as much as possible. Certain breeds, specifically white, short-haired dogs, can get sunburned.
- Keep your house cool even when you’re not there. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your puppy.
- Do not EVER leave your pup in the car. The sun can heat the inside of a car as much as 20 degrees more than the exterior temperature, making it deadly hot even on days that don’t feel overly hot outside.
- Watch for signs of heatstroke including excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting and collapse.
If you do suspect that your puppy has heatstroke, get them to the vet ASAP. Heatstroke can cause permanent organ damage or even death. For more information on how to play safely during the dog days of summer, or on puppy health in general, feel free to reach out to our puppy adoption experts in Grand Rapids, MI at The Barking Boutique at (616) 446-6766.
