It’s officially SUMMER! And as the temperatures rise, here’s what you need to know to help keep your dog happy and healthy…

Try some frozen treats!

This delicious and very simple recipe will help your dog cool off in no time. With just three ingredients, you can make your pooch their very own ice (peanut butter) pops – or should we say ice pups?

Ingredients:
🍎 1 apple
🥜 2 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol free)
🍶 1 cup of Greek yoghurt

Method:
1) Mix yoghurt & peanut butter together in a mixing bowl
2) Cut the apple into small chunks – remove pips and stalk
3) Fill ice cube tray with mix
4) Place an apple chunk on top of the mix in each ice cube section
5) Pop in the freezer
6) Remove when frozen
7) Give one (or two) to your dog to taste test

Keeping your dog cool and preventing heatstroke.

Here are a few tips to ensure you are giving your pup the care they need in higher temperatures…

1) Make sure your dog has access to clean water at all times, ideally a large bowl filled to the brim.
2) Carry water and a bowl with you on walks.
3) On hotter days, walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day – in the early morning and late evening.
4) Watch your pet for signs of over-heating, including heavy panting and loss of energy. If you recognise these signs when on a walk, stop, find a shady spot and give your dog water.
5) Never leave your dog (or any pet) alone in a car – even with the windows open.
6) Make cooling tasty treats (as above) – or simply add your dog’s favourite food to ice cubes – or you can stuff a Kong and pop it in the freezer.

🌡Signs of heatstroke in dogs include collapse, excessive panting, and dribbling.

“Never leave a dog in a car, even for a moment. ‘Not long’ is too long!”

If you suspect your pet is suffering from the heat stroke, move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught, wet their coat with cool (not freezing) water, and contact your vet immediately.

Be particularly careful with short nosed dogs such as bull breeds, boxers, pugs, older dogs, and those that are overweight. These dogs can get heatstroke simply by running around.

Once a dog shows signs of heatstroke the damage is often already done, which is why it’s so important to prevent it.

 

Did You Know? Pale-coloured dogs are vulnerable to sunburn, particularly on their ears, noses and sparsely haired areas.

Sun damage can lead to skin cancer which may require extensive surgery – even amputation in severe cases. Sunlight can also make existing skin conditions worse, particularly if your dog has allergies.

The best prevention is to keep your dog indoors when the sun is strongest, between 11.00am and 3.00pm. Alternatively, pop a T-shirt on your dog and cover vulnerable areas to protect them. You can also apply a non-toxic waterproof human sunblock or one specifically made for pets. If your dog’s skin looks sore, crusty or scaly, call your vet.

Take care of your dog’s delicate paws! If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paw pads too. Dog booties can be bought from pet shops and online, or walk your dog at cooler times of the day to prevent their paws burning.

Grooming your dog is important in the summer months, especially for longhaired breeds, to get rid of matts and tangles. A tangle-free coat will protect your pet’s delicate skin and help to keep them cool. Some breeds may need their coats trimming to keep them comfortable. Ask a professional groomer for advice.

Enjoy the summer months with your dog’s. Play, swim, relax and be safe! ☀️