5 useful tips for dog care during the summer

With the arrival of summer, many of us are already dreaming of long days, relaxing in the sun and walking outdoors. And if you have a dog, your summer plans definitely include your furry friend. It’s just that while you enjoy the warmth of the sun, for him it can mean discomfort, tiredness or even serious health risks.

Dogs do not have the same thermoregulatory mechanisms as us. They don’t sweat through their skin and their fur, while beautiful, can become a hindrance when temperatures get too high. Plus, they can’t ask for a glass of water when they’re thirsty or pick the perfect time for a walk, so they’re completely dependent on you to make their summer bearable.

Yet, you don’t have to change all your plans to take care of him. Sometimes the simplest gestures can have the biggest impact: an extra bowl of clean water, a cool mat, or simply choosing a shadier route. And if you’ve ever felt that kind look that says “thank you” without words, you already know that every little bit of attention counts.

So before you pack your bags or head out with leash in hand, let’s take a look at some things you can do to keep your furry friend safe and healthy all summer long.

1. Brush it regularly

Summer means dust, pollen, insects and humidity. All of these inevitably end up in your pet’s fur, no matter how short or long it is. Frequent brushing helps remove debris, dead hair, keep skin clean and reduce the risk of irritation or infection. It’s also a good time to check your skin and notice any changes early. Ticks, for example, often get trapped in hard-to-see areas, at the base of the tail, behind the ears or in folds of the skin. Careful brushing can help you spot them early, before they cause infections or transmit diseases.

2. Create a cool corner in your home for him

Not all rooms in the house are the same when it comes to temperature. So choose an area where it stays cool of course, away from sunny or well-ventilated windows. On very hot days, you can place a cooling mattress there, like one from Nayeco, which helps maintain a comfortable temperature without the need for electricity or freezing. It is practical, safe and easy to integrate into your daily routine. Also, avoid thick fabrics, mattresses and blankets that retain heat and give them the choice of where they feel best.

3. Constantly provide fresh water

The dog will not ask you for water, but you will immediately notice when he searches for it in the void or when he drinks from any puddle he comes across. In summer your body loses fluids faster and requires continuous hydration. Water must not only be present, but also fresh and accessible. Change it frequently, especially if the pan is outdoors and is at risk of overheating. When you walk always carry a bottle and a suitable container with you. There are collapsible bowls or portable watering cans that are easy to use. Don’t forget about the interior either: if you have multiple rooms, provide at least two places with water that they can reach at any time. A recirculating bowl, like Pet Tribe’s Automatic Fountain Bowl, keeps the water moving and constantly oxygenates it, promoting consumption and keeping it fresher for longer. It is a practical solution for hot days, especially if your four-legged friend avoids stagnant water in the bowl.

4. Protect his paws on every walk

Hot asphalt or hot stones in the park are not only unpleasant but can also be dangerous. They can burn your dog’s sensitive pads within minutes. So, before you go out for a walk, check your temperature with the back of your hand. If you feel like it uncomfortable, it can be painful for him. Look for shaded paths, grassy paths or friendlier natural surfaces. You can also consider a pair of dog shoes that are extremely effective when you can’t avoid hot surfaces. A durable and practical example is Ruffwear’s Summit Trex footwear, which protects the pads and provides stability while walking. It fits well, is comfortable for longer walks and effectively prevents direct contact with hot asphalt or other abrasive surfaces.

5. Don’t neglect external deworming

Hot weather brings with it an explosion of fleas, ticks and other external parasites, which can create serious problems. From persistent irritations to diseases that can be transmitted through bites, such as babesiosis or Lyme disease, they all represent a real danger for your four-legged friend. So don’t rely on visual observation alone. Even if you don’t see anything when you brush it, that doesn’t mean the risk isn’t there.

Choose the right products based on your dog’s weight and lifestyle. On safepet.ro you can find various methods for deworming, such as pipettes, powder, sprays, tablets or even repellent collars. Regardless of the variant, regular extreme deworming is extremely important throughout the year, but especially during the summer. And, of course, don’t delay your veterinary visit if you notice excessive scratching, redness, or inflamed areas.

And last but not least, a small and simple trick that can really make a difference, especially on hot summer days, is to introduce wet food into your daily diet. In addition to being more palatable for many dogs, wet food contains a high percentage of water, which contributes to better hydration, especially if your four-legged friend doesn’t drink enough. It can be offered as a complete meal or mixed with dry food, in a proportion suited to your needs. The taste will attract him and the fluid intake will support his health during the hot weather.

Sources: