It’s finally summer, which means longer days and plenty of time to get out and enjoy the sunshine with your furry friend.
Before heading out on those long walks, ensure you prepare yourself with these summer dog walking tips to keep your pet safe during the warm weather. From keeping them hydrated to watching out for hot pavement, follow these simple tips to ensure a safe and fun summer season for you and your pet!
Make Sure Your Pet is Wearing a Collar with ID Tags
You should always ensure your dogs’ identification tags are new and up to date with your contact information. If they get lost, you don’t want to worry about them in the summer heat. Having ID tags will increase the likelihood of returning them to you quicker. You can also have your pet microchipped for added security. Are you unsure about whether or not to microchip your pet? Check out our blog on the pros and cons of microchipping here. If tags bother your dogs, or you don’t want to hear the “tap tap tap” on the water bowl, check into the ID collars locally made and customized by our friend at Wagz Wear.
Crucial Summer Dog Walking Tip: Carry Water and a Bowl For Your Pet to Drink From
Staying hydrated in the hot weather is probably our most crucial summer dog walking tip. Dehydration can lead to dangerous side effects such as heat stroke, kidney failure, unconsciousness, and in extreme cases, death.
Your dogs have no choice but to be outside in the hot weather as they need exercise and an opportunity to relieve themselves. The best thing you can do is pack water and a bowl on your walks so you and your pup can stop for a water break if you are going for a long walk.
Bring a Small First-Aid Kit in case of Emergencies
Anything can happen while you’re on a leisurely walk with your dog. They may step on something, eat something they aren’t supposed to, or play a little too rough with other neighbourhood dogs. If you have the tools to provide your dog with a short-term remedy before you can take them home to the vet, you will aid in their recovery. Keeping a few first aid items like gauze, tweezers, hydrogen peroxide, and non-stick bandages will be helpful in case any accidents occur.
Always Keep Your Pet on a Leash
Keeping your pet leashed keeps them under control. Keep your dog on a leash in your backyard and your front yard. This will ensure they don’t go far from your home while they can still enjoy some time outside. The last thing you want is your dog running around and exhausting themselves under the hot summer sun. Some cat owners like to bring their kitties out for fun in the sun. The same rules apply. Ensure your cat has a properly fitting harness and that they are also on a leash to keep them safe.
Avoid Walking Your Pet During the Hottest Hours of the Day
Before you head outside for each of your walks, check your local weather report for accurate temperature readings and the UV report. Typically, the day’s hottest hours are between 2 PM and 5 PM. If you can avoid going out between those hours, it would help your dog out a lot! Out of all of our summer dog walking tips, this one also benefits you.
Protect Your Pet’s Paws From Hot Pavement and Sidewalks
It is not uncommon for dogs to end up with burns on their paw pads from being on the hot pavement outside for too long. We are lucky to be able to wear shoes and sandals to protect our feet from the hot ground.
Stay off the sidewalks as much as possible, and walk on grassy areas. If you have a small dog, you can even carry them for a few minutes to give them a break from walking!
If you are lucky enough to live in an area with many trees, try to stay in the shade. You should never compromise your dogs’ comfort in the hot weather.
Summertime is a great time to get out and enjoy the weather, but it’s also important to remember to take precautions when walking your pets. Ensure they have plenty of water to drink, keep them on a leash, and avoid hot sidewalks and pavement. We hope these summer dog walking tips will help you enjoy the rest of the season comfortably.
With some preparation, you and your furry friend can enjoy the summer sun safely!
Don’t forget to also check yourself and your dog for ticks when you return from walks! Flea and tick season is in full swing. Keep a tick remover handy, and make sure your pup is on a flea and tick preventative this summer as well!
Not a fan of the dog days of summer? Not to worry! York Professional Pet sitting is here for all your pet sitting and dog walking needs. Contact us today to set up a consultation! We would be happy to meet you and your furry loved ones.
Morag is the owner and founder of York Regions most trusted premier in-home pet care and dog walking companies. In 2000 she saw a need for an alternative to kennels, catteries for family pets in the area and has always believed that pets are much happier and less stressed staying in their own familiar environment. Morag and her team are all certified in Pet 1st Aid and CPR, she also offers continuous training to her team members through online and hands on pet care and pet behaviour and care courses. Morag has earned her certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Professional Dog Walking and Canine Attendant training. She has lived in the Newmarket/Aurora area since 1991 is a wife, a mother of 2 adult children and a grandmother of 2 delightful little balls of energy. She has also been owned by fish, birds, mice, rats, cats, dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs and is an advocate for all living creatures. In her spare time she likes to be involved in her community and events travelling, reading and cooking.
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