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Petco shares tips and tricks for helping your dog during hot weather

With Spring already warming up and summer just around the corner, Petco has offered hot weather care advice to their dog owners.

We all know that our four-legged friends love the warm weather, perhaps a little too much. As such, dogs are rushed to veterinary clinics year-on-year with heat-related issues ranging from the uncomfortable to seriously dangerous. Here is Petco’s stellar advice.

The heat is on!
Credit: Patricia Marroquin

Protecting against pets

Hot weather care for dogs is about more than making sure they are not overheating, in fact, it encompasses a number of areas beyond temperature. One such area is fighting away pests, though thankfully, the 2024 cicada apocalypse will not be a danger to your dog.

“Bugs come out in full force in the summer, so make sure pets have the right preventative care in place with flea and tick medication, a special collar, or a cleansing shampoo to keep pests at bay,” Petco said in a press release on Wednesday.

The experts further suggested whisking your pooch off to the Vet to make sure they are up to date with vaccinations and the latest medications.

Beating the heat

Dog on beach
Credit: Sergio Teixeira/Unsplash

Of course, the hardest part of hot weather management is remaining calm, cool, and collected. Much like their owners, dogs have a built-in system for mitigating heat, but sometimes they need a helping hand.

“Keep pets protected from the sun with a hat or tent and ensure they always have access to fresh, clean water. Protect their paws from the hot concrete with cooling socks and implement sun protection for any outdoor adventure,” Petco said. “Apparel such as vests and bandanas are great for keeping pets cool.”

The hot weather also poses a chance for some key enrichment activities like filling items with water and freezing them. Not only does this keep your dog cool in hot weather, but it also keeps them focused and their little brains working.

Make a splash

Dog in pool
Credit: Unsplash/Murilo Viviani

When we humans get hot and frustrated our natural instincts push us towards water – and dogs are no different. Most, but not all dogs love the feeling of water on their body, so why not take full advantage during the hotter months of the year?

This can be as simple as purchasing a child’s pool or a massive plastic box depending on how big your dog is.

Petco added: “For pets that love extra exercise, a water agility hoop is perfect for practicing new tricks and water balls make fetching a blast.”

More treats

Dog chew
Credit: Unsplash/Chewy

If you are a dog owner then you already know how treats go hand-in-hand with basically every single thing you do.

They said: “Stock up on fun summer treats, including slushy frozen pops for dogs and squeezable treats for cats, that both hydrate and reward pets, or add a hydrating topper to their daily meals.”