Whether you’re in Tassie, Townsville or Tamworth, it can get pretty warm in our Aussie summers. If you’re feeling it, then bet that your four-legged best friend is feeling it too. Here are some great tips to help keep your dog, big or small, safe during our hot Aussie summer.
Keep Dog Safe During Hot Aussie Summer
Start Right
You are hopefully using all year-round preventive treatments for ticks, fleas and worms – but if not, now is a great time to revisit that and ensure your pooch is current on their immunisation, preventative treatments and generally is in good health.
Haircut
Some breeds just naturally malt in spring and their coats thin out. Other breeds actually should never have their hair cut, as their secondary coat is often an insulator, against the cold AND against the heat. Know your breed and talk to your groomer or do some research. But if your dog is the type which needs a haircut, then consider this in spring and possibly again mid-summer, or for some breeds it’s actually every six weeks, especially in summer.
Airconditioning
Just remember if you’re going to leave the aircon on for them whilst you’re out, ensure it’s a good temperature and not too cold. Likewise, if they are used to aircon, then when you go out for the day, consider whether you leave it on, OR make sure you open the windows and let in some fresh air. Don’t just leave them locked in a hot box.
Water!
I cannot stress the importance enough of lots of fresh water in summer. That’s why our Tall Water Bowls are so great for big dogs. In fact, I’ve always had multiple water stations around the house, inside and outside, so there is always fresh water on hand.
Water in Transit
In summer, consider taking water with you in the car or on longer walks. It can get hot and having some water on hand will be appreciated.
Summer Walks
Make sure in summer you’re not walking in the heat of the day; not only because it’s hot, but because bitumen or concrete can burn their paws. Remember also that sand when hot can really burn (try walking on the beach in the middle of summer in the middle of the day, you really need thongs) plus also fake grass can get quite hot. If you can’t walk on a surface barefoot, then don’t force your dog to do so. I know their paws (unless a pup) are tougher, but give it some thought – please. Plus, if your dog is older, or is struggling, shorten the walks in summer so as not to distress them.
Car Safety
Speaking of transit, in summer or anywhere it’s warm, remember a car heats up super quickly; so never leave a dog locked in a car in summer, even if you think you’ll just be five minutes. It’s likely that time you just go into the supermarket to only grab some milk and you get caught up at the register, or run into a friend and before you know it, it’s more like 10 minutes.
Sunburn
Dogs, especially those with pink noses (versus a black nose) are susceptible to sunburn. Consider a hat, sunscreen or walking early or late to avoid any problems.
Tick Inspections
Whilst you should be using a product for preventative means, if you’ve been walking in the bush, camping or near long grass, have a tick inspection when you get home. Also, be always on the lookout for your dog and if they are showing signs of being unwell, investigate immediately; it might be a tick and you need to get that seen urgently – visit your vet quickly if he’s got a tick.
Heat Stress
Look for the signs of heat stress, such as excessively panting, having difficulty breathing, drooling, weakness or even collapsing (or just lying down and refusing to keep walking).
Hot Treats
By this, I mean treats which you freeze and give to them to chew on which are cool, refreshing and delicious. Think about what you can freeze; even some dogs just enjoy an ice cube.
Alternative Exercise
If it’s too hot to walk, consider either walking super early in the morning, whilst it’s still cooler, or other activities, such as swimming or water play. If you’ve aircon at home, then even chasing a ball down the hallway in the cooler temp may be better. But remember, dogs also like to get out just to get some fresh air, sniff and lift a leg. Don’t just hide inside in the aircon … but make exercise sensible in the hot months of summer. With swimming, just take care to be aware of their preferences; not all dogs swim well, or if you’re up in Townsville, don’t allow your dog to swim where he might get eaten by a croc!
Summer can be a wonderful time of the year in Australia, but like with anything, be sensible and thoughtful of your bestie and ensure s/he is safe when it comes to the heat. Remember, lots of water is always wise, avoid hot cars, and don’t distress your dog with hard long walks in the heat. Make this summer one you’ll both enjoy and keep your dog safe. 🐾