The dog days of summer are approaching and you can tell by the sparkle in Fido’s eyes that he can’t wait to get outdoors to run, swim, hike, and enjoy all the other great outdoor activities. Before you grab Fido’s leash and head outdoors there are a few safety tips regarding the summer heat for you to think about while you two are having fun in the sun.

Heat Safety -

Dogs aren't as efficient at cooling down as humans are, since they release most of their body heat through the pads of their feet and by panting. This makes them more susceptible to heatstroke. Some ways to avoid over heating is to:

Exercise in the early mornings or at dusk and not during the hottest part of the day. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws. If your dogs paws become rough and cracked due to the heat we have Bow Wow Butter Balm and Paw Rub to help soothe and heal. We have several items such as Visiglo light up collars and leads and a Spotlit L.E.D. light for Fido’s collar to keep you and your dog safe when you are out at night.

Dogs with medium and long hair should be well-groomed in the summer. Long or thick hair can become tangled and matted and will trap the heat. Regular use of the FURminator Deshedding Tool can remove tremendous amounts of undercoat fur and keep Fido light and cool.

Dogs can get sunburned just like us, especially dogs with thin or light coats and pink skin. If you are going to be spending time outdoors with your dog you should apply sunscreen to his nose and ears before you head out. Try Flea the Scene an insect spray with an all-natural sunscreen.

Be sure your dog always has access to fresh cool water. Remember that water will vaporize on extremely hot days so refill your dogs outside water bowl through-out the day. When you are on the go with Fido bring along one of the collapsible Travel Bowls or a Pet Top (a top that allows your dog to drink from a water bottle).

If your dog is going to be outdoors in the heat, keep him comfortable with the Cool-It Bandana. This is a bandana that when wetted will help keep your dog cool by cooling the blood at the jugular veins as it circulates.

If your dog does become overheated you need to lower his body temperature immediately. Move your dog to a cool place, out of the sun and give him water. Immerse the dog in cool, not cold, water or very gently pour cool water on him and place his paws in cool water. Place ice packs on his head and neck and a fan in front of the dog. Once the dog has cooled down take him to your vet.

Some signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, bright-red tongue and gums, vomiting, wide eyes, thick saliva, diarrhea, lethargy, and body temperature of 104-110F degrees.

The products mentioned in this article can be found at www.dogadillo.com or in our dog store located at the Hill Country Galleria in Austin, Texas.