8 Things You Can Do to Protect Your Dog in the Summer

Sunshine Safety Tips

The days seem longer, the sun is shining and your dog wants to spend more time outdoors. Whether you and your dog are headed to park or just taking a stroll, veterinarians offer this advice:

• Never, ever leave your dog in the car;
• Make sure your dog has unlimited access to fresh water;
• Make sure your dog has access to shade when outside;
• Take walks during the cooler hours of the day;
• When walking, try to stay off of hot surfaces (like asphalt) because it can burn your dog's paws;
• If you think it's hot outside, it's even hotter for your pet – make sure your pet has a means of cooling off;
• Keep your dog free of external parasites (fleas, ticks) and heartworms – consult your veterinarian about the best product for your pet;
• Consider clipping or shaving dogs with long coats (talk to your veterinarian first to see if it's appropriate for your pet), and apply sunscreen to your dog's skin if she or he has a thin coat.