As the sun climbs higher and temperatures soar, taking your furry friend for a walk becomes not just a routine but a careful balancing act between exercise and safety. Summer brings its own set of challenges for dog owners, primarily centered around heat and humidity. Understanding how these factors affect your dog is crucial for ensuring their well-being during walks.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that dogs are more sensitive to heat than humans. They don't sweat like we do and rely on panting to cool down, which is less efficient in high humidity. As temperatures rise, the risk of heat exhaustion or even heatstroke increases significantly, especially for breeds with shorter snouts like bulldogs, pugs, and boxers.
The heat index, which combines air temperature and humidity to measure how hot it feels, is a useful tool for assessing outdoor conditions. When the heat index climbs into the high range, it's advisable to limit outdoor activities, including walks, during the hottest parts of the day. Early mornings and late evenings are generally cooler and safer times for walking your dog.
When preparing for a summer walk, consider the following tips:
• Always bring water for both you and your dog. Stop frequently for water breaks, even if your dog doesn't seem thirsty. Need to add more hydration to their routines? Try adding the Native Pet Bone Broth Powder to their morning kibble to encourage more liquid before the day turns hotter. https://finnandlola.com/products/beef-bone-broth-powder-grain-free-food-topper
• Pavement and sand can become scorching hot in the sun, potentially burning your dog's paw pads. Walk on grass or use protective booties. Protective paw balms are an easy way to protect their paw pads during hot and cold months.
• Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and unsteadiness. These are signs that your dog may be overheating and needs immediate rest and water.
• Regular brushing and, if appropriate for your dog's breed, trimming their fur can help them stay cooler.
Ultimately, the key to safe summer dog walking lies in moderation and awareness. Pay attention to your dog's behavior and the environmental conditions, and adjust your walking routine accordingly. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your walks remain enjoyable and safe for both you and your canine companion throughout the summer months.
Finn + Lola Provides weather-safe walking in all seasons in the Twin Cities' West Metro towns of: Plymouth, Wayzata, Minnetonka, Excelsior, Deephaven and Orono. To learn more about us, email us at hello@finnandlola.com to schedule and introductory call.