Don't Sweat Summer: 3 Tools For Surviving The Heat

It's finally here! Long days and cool nights mean lots of extra time to spend outside with your pup. Whether that means going to the beach or hanging out by the pool, there's a few precautions that should be taken to ensure everyone has a good time. 

Water Safety:  With temperatures rising, we often seek relief by going swimming. What does that mean for our fuzzy companions? Not all dogs know how to swim, even those that do, might not be strong enough to sustain a long or difficult swim. If you plan to spend time by the water, you should look into getting your furry companion a life jacket. Bright and easy to put on, this is an easy solution for dogs of all sizes.

Heat Safety:    It is very easy for dogs to overheat if you don't know the warning signs. 

• Heavy panting or rapid breathing
• Elevated body temperature
• Excessive thirst
• Weakness, collapse
• Glazed eyes
• Increased pulse and heartbeat
• Vomiting 
• Bloody diarrhea
• Seizures
• Bright or dark red tongue, gums
• Excessive drooling
• Staggering, stumbling
• Unconsciousness

Sun Safety:   While most dogs do just fine out in the sun, there are a few important things you should know about dog sunburn and dog skin cancer.

#1 – Apply a dog sunscreen.
When should sunblock be applied? You’ll want to put a quality dog sunscreen on each time before your dog goes outside — especially if your dog will be spending a lot of time out in the sun.
Where should sunblock be applied on a dog? Put it on your dog’s nose, belly, ears, and groin. Any spot that is normally "pink" on you'd dog — including any skin that shows when your dog is shaved — should be protected with sunscreen prior to being outdoors for long periods of time. Avoid using dog sunscreen around the eyes. (see #5 below)

#2 – Don't cut your dog's fur too short.
Your dog’s hair is one of the things that helps to protect the skin from sun exposure. If your dog has at least half-an-inch of fur, then it would be highly unlikely that sunburn would ever occur. However, if your dog is shaved, then be very careful whenever he is exposed to the sun. That said, fur alone isn't the best source of sun protection.

#3 – Buy sun protection dog clothes. 
In addition to mid-length dog shirts, look for a full-body dog sunsuit. Ideally, you want at least 30+ UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).

#5 –Protect your dog's eyes.
The eyes are a common spot for canine melanoma. That’s why doggie sunglasses, like Doggles, are so popular. They’re the world’s only eyewear made just for dogs. 
Pet goggles for dogs offer 100% UV protection, and shatterproof, anti-fog lenses facilitated by side air vents; a very flexible, wrap around foam padded frame; interchangeable capable lenses; two adjustable soft elastic head and chin straps; for complete and beneficial dog goggle eye protection for your pet.

                  What If Your Dog Gets Sunburned?

If your dog does happen to become sunburned, 100% pure Aloe Vera gel is the best way to quickly and easily soothe your dog's skin.

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