Sun-safe tips and tricks for your dog this summer
Everyone who has attended dog obedience training in Chicago knows that the city is not famous for its sunny weather, but that doesn’t mean we won’t experience the summer heat. Our canine friends (and family) handle the heat differently than humans. Here are a few tips and tricks to help your furry friend through this summer:
Water is essential
It may be obvious, but we stress this point because it is so vital. Make sure your dog has access to water at all times. Consider getting a shallow splash pool big enough for him or her to wade in for relief.
Dog walking
If you usually walk your dog during midday, it’s a good idea to adjust the time of your dog walk to early morning or evening walks. The temperatures are generally cooler and they can enjoy the walks as much as you do. Make sure you take along drinking water for both of you so that you and your dog stay hydrated.
A trim doesn’t mean a win
You might think that trimming your pup’s fur coat is the answer to cooling him down, but that is not always the case. Your dog’s coat serves as a buffer to help regulate their body temperature and trimming it could increase their chance of sunburn. Make sure that you speak to your handler, a reputable groomer or your local vet if you are unsure about trimming your dog’s coat.
Cooling and shade
Your dog will enjoy the relief from the air conditioner as much as you do, especially when the humidity becomes unbearable. Keep them indoors on those blistering hot days. If you can’t, make sure they have access to a large shaded area. Grassed surfaces are also preferable as paving and concrete conduct heat and could burn your pup’s paws in the summer. In general, if you can’t walk barefoot on the paving, neither can your pup.
There are many more fun tricks and tips to keep your pet cool this summer, like frozen doggy treats and water friendly games to play while training. Be sure to ask your handler for more information at your dog obedience classes.
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