I hope you all enjoyed your long weekend, I certainly did. As the weather continues to warm (this "June gloom" will end soon) I want to make sure our dogs are taken care of. I hope these great tips from FunStuffForDogs.com will help you.
We all know by now not to leave the dog in the car and to walk the dog in the morning before it gets hot. At FunStuffForDogs.com, we strive to bring you the freshest collection of cool dog gear and great information you haven't seen everywhere else. So here's our list of summertime tips for dog lovers this year.
- For a delicious summertime treat, freeze chicken broth in ice cube trays. Let your dog enjoy them outside so they don't stain your carpet or make the floor slick. Dogs love playing with them as much as they like eating them.
- Did you know that dogs who are brachycephalic (short-faced) -- such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Japanese Chins, and Pekingese -- have an especially hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-faced dogs? Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with air-conditioning.
- Dogs can get sunburned, too. Those with short hair, pink skin or white hair (including those with long noses) are especially at risk. Apply sunblock to your dog's nose, ears and other areas where skin is exposed when you're in the sun.
- Who knew? Some dogs cannot swim. Before letting your dog jump off the dock or boat, make sure he or she can swim in an environment where you can help out if needed.
- If you're flying, be sure your airline will transport a dog in the summer months; some will not. If taking your dog on an airplane, pack ice packs in the crate. Fill two 2-liter bottles 3/4 full with water, then squeeze until the water level is near the top, and screw the cap on. Freeze, then place in your dog's crate for the trip. If you don't squeeze the bottle prior to freezing, the bottle could burst during freezing or in the airplane when the air pressure changes.
- Feed your dog garlic to control fleas this summer. One clove per day can control fleas and some intestinal worms (smaller dogs may need less, so check with your veterinarian). Don't give garlic to pregnant dogs, though. A tablespoon of brewer's yeast for large dogs (less for smaller ones) is said to also be an effective flea deterrent. Some have tried a drop of vinegar in their dog's drinking water. Because these remedies are all-natural, there's no reason not to try all three!
- When it's too hot to walk your dog, try a wading pool or sprinkler. Sure, you'll need to towel off your dog afterward, but he'll get lots of exercise, stay cool, get the mental stimulation he needs and if he loves water, he'll have such a great time!
Give us a bark: Bark!
