Here are ways to make sure your dog has a healthy and safe summer!

Safety is still a huge priority in our lives this summer, but some safety precautions will always exist. The same goes for your pet; summertime can pose numerous dangers for canines of which owners should be aware. As people and their pets get out and about this summer, a dog owner should make sure to care for their dogs in the following ways.

Every dog owner should already be on schedule with their pet’s  vaccines . Puppies have more frequent vet visits up to a certain age when vaccination appointments happen either every year or every three years. As your vet can tell you, these important procedures protect against various diseases like Lyme disease, heartworm, and other serious illnesses.

One of the most significant tenants of dog safety in the summer is to never leave your dog in a  hot car . Even in seemingly mild weather, like 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the interior of a vehicle can reach deadly heights. Always take your dog out with you, whether your car is in the shade or not.

Another concern is hot pavement. On very sunny days, asphalt driveways and parking lots can scorch the underside of your pet’s paws. Even if it is tolerable, the heat can still significantly affect your dog’s body temperature as well. The  best way to deal with this issue is simply to keep your dog off those surfaces.

No matter where you go, whether to the backyard or the beach, you will always want to provide a way for your dog to have fresh water at all times. Hydration is vital for dogs as well as humans, and perhaps more so. If you let your dog play outside, let it have access to water and shade.

One may think that all dogs can swim, and generally, all dogs can instinctively. However, not all are good swimmers. Whenever your pet goes into the pool or another body of water, stay on the scene in case it needs to be pulled out.

Some dogs, especially those with light-colored fur, can get sunburn. At its worst, the harmful sun exposure can lead to canine skin cancer. Don’t just apply your sunscreen to your dog, though; your vet can recommend a product suitable for your pet. 

Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at 24/7 Local Veterinarian!

At 24/7 Local Veterinarian, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at (833) 220-1880! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  LinkedIn , or Pinterest!