As Houstonians and their pets gear up to endure the dog days of summer (July 22 through August 23), it can be tricky to ensure dogs get their daily exercise while staying cool. Barbara Marshall, co-founder of local dog food Wag Tantrum, has a slew of summer pet safety tips to help owners ensure their furry friends stay protected, healthy and happy during the hottest time of year.
Below are 8 Tips that Barbara is able to expand on:
1) Walks should be taken early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the hottest times of the day
2) Bring a collapsible water bowl with you on your walk
3) Allow your dog to get in the pool before or after a walk, or spray your dog down with some cold water before the walk
4) Avoid walking your dog on hot asphalt, or purchase booties for your dogs to protect their paws
5) Check the temperature of the sand at the beach – it can also get extremely hot
6) Give your pup some homemade frozen “pupsicles” you can make at home with healthy, organic ingredients
7) When you return from your walk, provide your dog with a cool surface to lay on like a towel soaked in cold water
8) Know the signs of heat exhaustion
