Top 9: Dog Summer Walking Tips
As the summer heat intensifies, it can be challenging for both you and your dog to stay active. If you notice your dog panting a lot during walks or seeming restless, these could be signs of serious issues. Don't ignore them.
During the summer season, dogs can face several major problems due to the increased temperatures:
1) Heatstroke: Symptoms include rapid heart rate, bright red gums & tongue, vomiting, diarrhea & loss of coordination.
2) Dehydration: Symptoms vary from dog to dog, including excessive panting, sunken eyes, difficulty breathing & thick saliva.
3) Paw Pad Burns: Signs include rough & cracked paws, redness between fingers above and under the paw, and burning sensations. One can guess that the dog licks its paws frequently to keep them cool and hydrated.
4) Sunburns: Skin directly exposed to the sun can get sunburned without protection from sunscreens or Cooling Jackets.
5) Excessive Shedding: Dogs don’t sweat, so excessive shedding in dogs during summers helps them regulate their body temperatures according to the temperatures in our surroundings.
Tips When Walking Your Dog:
1) Reconsider Your Walk Time: Change your walk time to early mornings & late evenings or before & after the sun sets & rises. Prefer walking in shadowed areas during the day times.
We recommend morning walks to conclude before 8 AM and evening walks after 6 PM when the sun starts to set. This way, you can also enjoy a beautiful sunset moment with your pet.
2) Stay mindful of the walking surfaces: Try walking on sand, mud, rocky areas, grass, or artificial turfs as they don’t heat up as much as other surfaces do. If you are walking on footpaths, roads, hot pavements, and asphalt, put on Zoof Casuals. They are breathable velcro shoes that will protect the pup’s paws from burns.
3) Carry Your Hydration: Carry plenty of water for both the dog and yourself to stay hydrated on the go. Don’t let that stop you from taking longer walks.
4) Be Mindful of sensitive Breeds: Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to heat-related problems than others. Small breeds and those with broad, short skulls, like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, are especially vulnerable. This is due to their snouts, which can make it hard for them to cool down well. Also, dogs with thick or double coats, like Siberian Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Chow Chows, need special care. These breeds are prone to underlying health conditions exacerbated by heat, so pet parents must keep a close watch on them during hot weather.
5) Create Fun Activities: Exercise is a must for all dog breeds. None Excluded. So, you can start a few indoor activities during the day. For example, play fetch in your living area, play ‘find it’ with treats and toys, or do puzzles and tug. These activities will keep your dog's mind active and use up extra energy without the heat.
6) Protective Gears: Invest in effective protective gears for their body as well as paws. Zoof Pets has introduced their Cooling Jackets & Paw Protecting Balm. Because “PrePAWtions are always better than Cure”.
Dogs struggle to regulate heat, making them prone to fatal heat strokes in high temperatures. And, this is critical if your pup falls in the high-risk category. Zoof Summer Cooling Jacket helps keep the dog cool by the principle of evaporative cooling, keeping your dog's body cool during summer walks.
7) Be Prepared for Emergencies: It's crucial to be prepared for emergencies, especially during harsh summer days. If you notice any symptoms of the summer issues in your dog, get help from your dog's vet right away. Early intervention can prevent these issues from escalating.
8) Avoid Letting Them Alone in the Cars: Avoid leaving your dog alone in cars, as the enclosed space can quickly become stuffy and make it difficult for your dog to breathe. Just as you wouldn't leave a child in a closed car, the same applies to your furry friend. If you need to leave them in the car for a short period, ensure there is proper ventilation by opening the windows. However, it's best to take them along with you. Or, leave them with a trusted friend or in a safe dog hostel. This is especially true for small dog breeds.
9) Climate Change & Its Effects on Our Pets: Climate change will likely cause more heat and floods. These conditions will aid the spread of parasites and illnesses. They include tick-borne diseases, flea infestations, and heartworm. This puts both cats and dogs at risk.
A recent report highlighted by Hindustan Times and several other reputable E-newspapers, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heatwave warning. It was for many states and cities across the nation. Among the regions affected are Maharashtra, including Thane, Raigad, and the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, along with North Goa in Goa, and various areas in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. This announcement serves as a stark reminder of the scorching temperatures and challenging conditions faced by residents and pets alike.
During the summer months, it's important to pay extra attention to what you feed your dog. This is to ensure they stay hydrated and keep their strength. This is especially crucial during heat waves and rising temperatures. Opt for foods that are light, easy to digest, and rich in water content to help them stay hydrated. Foods are rich in electrolytes and vitamins. They can help replenish pets' energy and keep them active. Proper hydration and food are key. They keep your dog healthy and strong in the summer heat.
Food That We Recommend You Feed Your Dog, Keeping in Mind Their Walk Time:
Before the Walk:
- Coconut Water: Hydrating and rich in electrolytes, it helps prevent dehydration.
- Carrot Sticks: Crunchy and low-calorie, great for dental health and vitamin A.
- Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, supports cognitive function and reduces inflammation.
- Watermelon Juice: Refreshing and hydrating, high in vitamins A, B6, and C.
- Cucumber Juice: Low-calorie and hydrating, helps maintain hydration levels.
After the Walk:
- Water: Essential for rehydration after exercise, helps regulate body temperature.
- Fruit Bowl: Your dog's fruit bowl must consist of Watermelon (Without seeds), Apples, Mango and - Berries.
- Chach/Buttermilk with Chia Seeds: Great source of hydration and contains probiotic benefits for gut health. And Chia Seeds help them cool down during summers.
- Cooked Chicken: Lean protein supports muscle repair and recovery.
- Boiled/Scrambled Egg: High-quality protein, supports muscle repair and recovery.
- Pumpkin Puree with Kibble or regular meals: In India, the use of pumpkin puree in our dogs' meals is not as common as in the United States and European countries, largely due to a lack of nutrition education. However, pumpkin puree is highly beneficial for dogs as it is rich in fiber and beta-carotene. It aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Reminder: Feed 30 minutes before or after their walks. It's always a good idea to check with your vet before making any significant changes to your dog's diet.
We understand your goal is to make your pets & your walk time fun & enjoyable during these scorching heat days. Also keep in mind the precautions & cure for emergencies.
Don’t let the sun stop you from bonding with your dog during your walky-times.
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