When it comes to experiencing the four seasons in California anything goes.
In fact, it can get warm anytime of the year, even in mid-winter! Nevertheless, your dog will still need walks, but remember that while you can dress down to shorts and a t-shirt, your companion still has on that permanent fur coat. That’s why Fidomingle offers the following tips for proper pet care when temps are high:

Get wet when you can

While you can go to the beach or the local pool, your dog may not. There are few beaches in California that allow dogs and some not until the off season when it’s already cool. Some dogs will enjoy being hosed down, while others do not enjoy being bathed no matter how hot it is.

Some alternatives are to take your dog along to a park for a creek walk, or to a local swimming hole. There will likely be other dogs and people around, so this is only an option if your dog is socialized and well-behaved around others. But if yours is a water dog like a lab, they will love you for it.

Take water with you

When you do go on walks, if it’s any distance at all, or if you’ll be gone from the house for more than half an hour, you should bring some water and something for your dog to drink out of. they can’t sweat, and because of that fur coat, a dog can overheat.

Dog parks often have water available, but you can’t always rely on it, and if the water has been sitting out, warm water won’t cool them.

If you use a dog walker, have a talk with them about the heat. If they’ve noticed the dogs they walk feeling it, you might consider a shorter walk, or keep frozen dog treats for them to enjoy afterwards. Some dogs will even walk on a treadmill. So if yours is so inclined, an indoor walk might be best for a day or two when the heat is punishing.

Get a haircut

If you’ve got a groomer, talk about a “summer cut.” A lot of the decorative fur and furnishings can come off. Your dog might look a little silly to you at first, but they’ll be happier with a complete shavedown if it means being cooler.

Watch for clues

Your dog will find cooler places to lay down. They’re usually pretty smart and good at communicating what they need. They might lay on top of a floor vent or in front of a fan. If you buy them a small personal fan, you may notice them spending time in front of it. If your dog is lethargic, that’s natural, as long as they aren’t panting for too long while resting, and as long as they don’t seem uncomfortable.

Lower your stress levels

While high temps can make anyone feel uncomfortable, it’s important to keep your stress levels low whenever possible. Dogs are very in tune with human emotions, so do try to keep cool. Stay hydrated by drinking filtered water (which is beneficial to your health), take cold showers, and participate in relaxing activities like reading a book or drawing.

Don’t Forget Pet Sitting

If you’re taking a vacation and it’s really hot, many dog kennels are outdoors and not equipped with air conditioning. A good alternative is to hire a pet sitter or dog walker, so the dog can still stay at home while you’re gone. And while they’ll definitely miss you, it can be less traumatic for them than a kennel, especially if it’s really hot out.

Warm weather normally offers good opportunities for outdoor doggy adventures. Be sure to watch out for signs that it’s too hot for your friend, and always remember to keep them hydrated, cool, and in the shade whenever possible. And don’t forget to properly care for yourself, too!

At Fidomingle, we deeply care about your pup’s health. That’s why we’ve developed an app that allows you to upload pet records, find local vet clinics, and make friends with other pet lovers. Download the app today.

Guest Article by Cindy Aldridge
Photo By: Pixabay