It’s Getting HOT Out There!
Hot dogs, it’s getting warm out there! Even Kyli isn’t cuddling on the couch like she used to! Me neither for that matter!
My mom said it’s merely turning more into summer and that the seasons are changing. She started telling me all about the science of these season things but, I admit, I zoned out a bit. I’m having a hard enough time learning to use something called my “inside voice”. I bark at my mom and tell her I don’t understand, but she just ignores me. Clearly, barking is NOT my “inside voice”.
So, human “science” is dumb to me. Unless it can tell me where my “inside voice” is hiding.
I do insist, however, on teaching you humans how to keep us puppies safe during your summer seasoning. Actually, despite Kyli telling me that cats are part of a secret global conspiracy to take over the world, you humans should watch out for your kitties too. You see, we pets may not follow “science” but we do know how we feel about being too hot. It’s NOT fun. Luckily, I’ve looked over some of my favorite sites and can help you know what to do!
My mom says humans like lists of facts, so here is mine:
Charlie’s Super Awesome Safe Summer Tips for Keeping Your Puppies (and kitties) Cool
Not too bad, eh? I think I have a knack for titling things.
1.) Make sure we dogs have access to plenty of fresh water and shade. I’m not TOO picky when it comes to my water, but on a hot day after I’ve been playing, it’s nice to know it’s there! If the day is particularly hot, you can even sneak a few ice cubes in there! I promise us doggies won’t mind!
When it comes to shade, though, it’s important to remember that shade DOES NOT equal shelter. Those nice warm Dogloos and Dog Houses are great in the winter but turn to HOT SPOTS in the summer. Make sure shade comes in the form of overhangs with plenty of air.
2.) No over-exercising! I know people like sticking to their fitness routines, but we pups have different bodies. Just because we can run with you on those hot days doesn’t mean we SHOULD.
And when you do take us out, make sure the walk is during the cooler parts of the day. I’m sure you will agree with me on that one! That asphalt can get HOT and we pups are a LOT closer to the ground than you! If you can’t avoid it, perhaps even getting us some stylishly safe booties to protect our paw pads while we join you for a walk? Look at mine!
3.) Don’t shave down your pup! Speaking of style, trimming our longer hairs during the summer is fine (we DO have to look our best by the pool) but shaving us down is a bad idea. Our coats, thick or thin, are designed with protection in mind! The layers actually keep us from overheating AND protect us from sunburn and insects.
4.) Don’t leave us unsupervised near water. I know my doggy paddle looks great, but not every dog knows how it’s done. Particularly senior dogs or puppies. If they fall in and don’t know what to do that can lead to a very bad situation.
Some of us, though, may like a little kiddie pool OR a cooling mat! (Keep Cool Mat)
5.) Don’t leave us in cars! I will quote Taylor Swift here and say “NEVER EVER, EVER, EVER” leave us in a car.
I read on the Humane Society’s website that on an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a car with the windows open slightly can still reach at least 102 degrees in just 10 minutes! HOT DOG!
And yes… I do read and listen to Taylor Swift. I’m a dog that’s up on everything! Too bad mom won’t let me get a Twitter.
6.) Last but NOT least, be a smart owner and know the signs of heat stroke. Just like our humans we can overheat and it’s pretty scary stuff! Some signs include heavy panting, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, dizzinesss, lack of coordination and even a deep red or purple tongue. Don’t let us get THAT far!
For more information about keeping your pets safe in the summer, check out two of my favorite sites for pet safety (and where I get most of my information):
They even have a recipe for PEANUT BUTTER POPSICLES. MOM, you better be proofreading this!! And making those…
Stay cool out there people and pups!
gracieabrams
titsay
2087
dailybridgerton
areudirty
theartofmadeline
pixelskylines