By Renee Birchfield

Have you noticed the temperature rising, I know in Central Arkansas it is getting h-o-t! Most everyone knows they should stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while it is hot out, but many people forget to think about their pets. They get hot too and there are ways to help and protect them while we ride out the summer heat.

Dogs can suffer from many of the same problems that people can when in the sun and heat. Such as heat stroke, sunburn, and dehydration. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe.

 

• NEVER leave your dog in the car, even if you crack the window.
• Always have clean water available. If it’s cold that is even better.
• If your dog is kept outside make sure the water is in the shade so that the bowl doesn’t burn them. A good way to keep the water cold is to use half ice and half cold water to fill the bowl.
• If you are out with your dog make sure to have an extra water bottle and container for them to get a drink.
• When walking your dog first test the ground they will be walking on. If it is too hot for you to stand on for less than 30 seconds then it is too hot for them.
• Try to walk in the morning or evening when the ground is not as hot. Also letting them walk on the grass can help.
• If your dog is outside with you for a long time make sure there is shade for them to lie in. Their skin can burn if they are exposed to the sun for long periods of time. 
• If you go to the lake or for a hike use a dog-safe sunscreen, or clothing that can protect their back.
• Keep your house cooled off to a reasonable temperature. Your dog can get hot inside too if they have been active and have a lot of fur.

 

My dog recently was having some heat-related symptoms while being inside. We realized she was dehydrated. It was not from a lack of water available, but she was too distracted to go get a drink. We have found that giving her ice cubes often is keeping her cool and hydrated, plus she loves them! We have also lowered the air conditioner so that while we are gone she is staying nice and cool.

Our pets are like family so remember to be aware of their safety in the dog days of summer. We don’t want any sizzling hot dogs, well unless they are off the grill! 

Renee shares her favorite things in life at Married and Hungry. Hoping that her newlywed situations and thoughts will help another new wife out there, and to let them know they are not alone. Being a self-proclaimed food nerd, with a degree in Food and Culinary Science, she shares her recipes and experiments.  Her and her husband call Central Arkansas home for now. You can find her at home making the kitchen a mess, trying to cross stitch, or playing with their two dogs. Keep up with her over on Twitter, and Married and Hungry’s Facebook page.