Summers have become hotter in the last two decades, especially the last several years, due to global warming. This increase in temperature doesn’t affect only us but also our pets. Dogs, as the most outdoor-active pets, are most exposed to the sun’s UV rays and the heat which is why you need to take proper care of them during the hot summer days.

Here are 5 things to consider when preparing your dog for the summer.

Increase the Water Intake

The heat makes us sweat, which leads to lower amounts of water in our bodies. The same happens to dogs. To prevent them from dehydrating during the summer, you need to increase their water intake.

During the hottest days, it’s a good idea to add ice cubes to their water bowl to keep the water cooler. Also, you should add wet dog food to your dog’s diet to add more moisture to their body.

Vitamins and Minerals to the Rescue

Speaking of dog food, you should choose high-quality and nutrient-rich food during the summer days. Foods rich in vitamins, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and zinc are especially good because they not only provide your dog with essential nutrients but also protect their skin and coat.

Keep Your Dog Cool

Heat can make all of us feel tired and nervous, especially because we can’t sleep well at night. To fight the heat and keep your dog cool, you should use an air conditioner, pull down the blinds, and draw the curtains. You could also freeze your dog’s food before feeding them, add ice cubes to its water, and purchase cooling mats and bandanas for additional protection outside.

Do you have a pool in the yard? Use it! Let your dog cool down in the water, but make sure you’re always there to watch them or use a water preserver to keep them safe.

Keep the Bugs Away

There can be no summer without insects and bugs. That’s why you need to keep them away from your dog.

To do this, you should place insect and bug repellents that are safe for your dog around your home. If you live in a house, cut down the grass instead of using fertilizers and pesticides because they are harmful to dogs.

Before you do anything, talk to your vet to hear their suggestion on how to protect your dog from insects, fleas, and ticks.

Stay in Shade

Shade is your and your dog’s best friend during the summer months. When the temperatures increase and the air is so hot it’s hard to breathe, stay at home during midday. And, when you need to go for a walk, do it in the early morning, moving in the shades, and later in the evening. If your dog can’t stand to stay inside during the day, take them out around your building or block or spend the time on the porch under fans.

Final Thoughts

As a general rule, it’s best to stay at home as much as possible during the day to avoid the heat and sun’s rays. However, if your pooch is decisive about going out, make sure you take all measures to keep them safe.