As the summer sun shines brightly, it’s tempting to grab the leash and head out for a walk with your furry companion. While walks are a great way to bond and keep your dog physically and mentally healthy, the summer season presents hidden dangers that many pet parents don’t realize until it’s too late. Here’s what you need to know to keep your dog safe during summer strolls.
- Hot Pavement Can Burn Paws
One of the most overlooked risks of summer walks is the temperature of the ground. Asphalt, concrete, and even sandy paths can become dangerously hot under the blazing sun. If it’s too hot for your hand or bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Walking on scorching surfaces can cause painful burns or blisters, leaving your dog distressed and injured.
What You Can Do:
- Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground is cooler.
- Stick to grassy areas or shaded paths that don’t retain heat.
- Consider investing in dog booties to protect their paws from hot surfaces.
- Dehydration and Heatstroke
Dogs don’t sweat like humans do; they rely on panting to cool down. This makes them much more susceptible to overheating, especially on warm summer days. A brisk walk in the heat can quickly lead to dehydration or even life-threatening heatstroke.
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bright red gums or tongue
What You Can Do:
- Always carry water and a portable dog bowl during walks.
- Limit the duration of your walks on particularly hot days.
- Choose shaded routes to keep your dog cool and take frequent breaks in the shade.
- Beware of Hidden Hazards
Summer brings unique outdoor challenges that can be harmful to dogs, including:
- Burrs and Grass Seeds: Dry grass and burrs can easily stick to your dog’s fur or embed themselves in their paws, ears, or nose, causing irritation or infection.
- Snakes and Wildlife: Many Australian snakes are more active in summer, and a curious dog exploring undergrowth could accidentally encounter one.
- Puddles and Stagnant Water: Drinking from standing water during walks can expose your dog to harmful bacteria, parasites, or chemicals.
What You Can Do:
- Check your dog’s paws and coat thoroughly after walks to remove burrs or seeds.
- Keep your dog on a lead in areas where snakes are common.
- Provide clean, fresh water to prevent your dog from drinking from unsafe sources.
- Sunburn and UV Exposure
Just like humans, dogs can get sunburned, particularly on areas with less fur, such as their nose, ears, and belly. Prolonged UV exposure can also increase the risk of skin cancer in dogs with lighter coats or sensitive skin.
What You Can Do:
- Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas, especially if your dog has a light-colored coat.
- Avoid walking during peak UV hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
- Provide your dog with a cooling vest or shaded accessories for added protection.
- Overexertion Can Be Dangerous
Some dogs are so enthusiastic about walks that they don’t realize when they’ve overdone it. Overexertion can lead to muscle strain, overheating, or even exhaustion, especially for senior dogs or breeds prone to breathing difficulties, like pugs or bulldogs.
What You Can Do:
- Pay attention to your dog’s energy levels and body language during walks.
- Adjust the intensity and length of walks based on their age, breed, and fitness level.
- Give them plenty of time to rest and recover after exercise.
Enjoying Safe and Fun Walks Together
Summer walks don’t have to stop, but they do require extra precautions to ensure your dog stays happy and healthy. By being mindful of the hidden dangers—hot surfaces, dehydration, sunburn, and more—you can keep your dog comfortable and safe while still enjoying the benefits of outdoor adventures.
Your pup depends on you to protect them from risks they can’t foresee. With a little preparation and awareness, you can both enjoy the sunny season while avoiding unnecessary stress and dangers. This summer, make every walk a safe and enjoyable one for your beloved companion!