Dog Days of Summer

Summer is sneaking up on us quickly, and those of us who live in the furnace otherwise known as Arizona know that we must be extra careful to avoid things like sunburn, heat stroke, and third degree burns from the leather seats in your car. But what about your pups? They need protection too! Here is some advice in preparation for the upcoming heat as well as products that will protect your furry friend through those long months.

Sunscreen

Think your pooch doesn't need sunscreen? Think again! This spring I could see through the fine white hair on the top of THOR's head that he was indeed a little pink after an afternoon at the bark park. Although dog and human physiology is dramatically different, we all need protection from the sun's harmful rays. Not all doggie fur will protect them completely. In fact, light-colored dogs can sunburn, especially on their noses and ears, and have been known to develop skin cancer. With that in mind, make sure you use a sunscreen that has an SPF of 15 or more, is water resistant, and free of zinc oxide- this is highly toxic if ingested. In more humid climates, an SPF and insect-repellent combo may be a good choice. There are brands specifically for dogs, and experts also recommend baby sunblock for use on your pets. Depending on the thickness of your dog's fur, it may not be necessary to spray sunscreen all over- but be sure to put it on the sensitive areas, like the tip of the nose or the belly/under the tail area.

Eye Protection and Hats

There are companies out there that make sunglasses especially for Fido. One of the most popular brands is Doggles. They offer sunglasses that have 100% UV protection and are shatterproof for those less-graceful moments. Hats also may be a good option as they will protect the eyes but also the top of the head as well.

Hot Paws!

Pavement and asphalt can get unbearably hot for your dog's feet- even at night- so when you do take your dog on walks where there is no other option such as dirt or grass, puppy boots may be the way to go! Rubber soles are great in the summer.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke can hit more suddenly than you realize. As a general rule, larger dogs, dogs with black coats, and dogs with short muzzles tend to be more prone to suffering heat stroke. And a bit of common sense that I shouldn't have to tell any of my readers: never, EVER leave your dog in your car while it's shut off, even to run a quick errand. In Arizona especially, the temperature inside your car rises in a matter of seconds when the A/C isn't running. In any case, if you notice that your dog is laying on its side panting heavily, with its tongue and gums more pink than usual, it may be showing signs of a heat stroke. If your dog collapses, you must take it to the vet immediately and, if possible, put ice packs around it on your way there. Whatever you do, if your dog suffers serious heat stroke, do not wait to see if your dog's condition improves before departing for the emergency vet- pets have been known to die of heat stroke. Don't take that chance.

A Final Word...

And, of course, make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, cold water year round. Check the Live.Laugh.Love.Dog. Store for products that will help protect your pup in the coming summer months. Chances are, if you can't take the heat without some recourse, your dog won't be able to either!

Sources: Fox News, Newsweek, MSNBC