Staying Safe In Dog Friendly Areas This Summer

Using dog friendly areas to exercise your dog is an important part of keeping them in great shape and offers many benefits for their wellbeing and general health. However, during the summer months, getting that exercise can be difficult. The overwhelming heat of summer can become dangerous for your pets if you're not careful. Make sure that your pet is comfortable and happy all summer long by following these simple guidelines for pet safety.

Unless your dog has one of those short coats that always stays the one-length, such as a Jack Russell, you should clip your dog's coat before summer starts. Not only will this permit your pet to be cooler by reducing the amount of insulating fur on their skin, but it will also allow breezes to cool them down. In addition, you will have an easier time searching for ticks when your dog's fur is short. This can be done at home or by a professional groomer.

You should take care to have the supplies that your pet needs on you at all times. In Summer, it's particularly important to have a good supply of water and a drinking bowl. We suggest you keep a two-litre bottle of water and a bowl in the boot of your car so that you never get caught out. Your dog will need water not only at the park, but also on a hot day whilst running errands around town with you for example. Offer fresh water regularly and only allow your pet to drink from your supply of water or h2O that's fresh from the tap.

It's smart to limit your dog's outdoor activities and restrict their exercise to the cooler parts of the day. Exercise should only take place during the early morning or late evening. If the day feels too hot or humid for your own comfort, it's likely that it's going to be uncomfortable for your pet too. Remember that your dog feels the heat even more than you do due to their layer of fur and their inability to sweat. It may actually be dangerous to have Rover out and about, so stay home and keep him quiet and relaxed.

When you do leave the house, plan to head to dog friendly areas that offer plenty of shade and opportunities to cool down. Take the time to relax with your pet, enjoying a dog park obstacle with water or just resting in the shade. Whenever your dog seems to be getting hot, offer them something to drink and insist they take a rest. Don't forget your own sun protection, always wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water for your own use.

To find out more tips on how to survive dog friendly areas, check out http://www.takeyourpet.com.au -- your one-stop shop for pet-friendly advice and accommodations.