As summer approaches, it’s essential to prepare for the warmer weather and ensure that your furry friend stays safe and happy during outdoor adventures. From sun protection to hydration and cooling supplies, there are several essentials you should consider investing in to make the most of the summer season with your dog.
First and foremost, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks of heatstroke, especially for dogs that are more susceptible, such as brachycephalic breeds. These dogs have difficulty regulating their body temperature in hot weather, making them more prone to overheating. It’s important to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day and be mindful of your dog’s limitations based on their breed and health condition.
In addition to heat-related concerns, summer also brings an increase in pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. These tiny critters can transmit various parasites to your dog, leading to serious illnesses. Consult with your vet about necessary vaccinations, worming, and flea and tick prevention to keep your pup safe during the summer months.
Now, let’s dive into the 23 summer essentials for dogs to ensure a safe and enjoyable season for you and your furry companion:
1. Sunscreen Spray: Protect your dog from sunburn with a pet-safe sunscreen spray like Emmy’s Best Pet Products Sun Skin Protector Dog Spray.
2. Sunscreen Stick: For precise application on sensitive areas like the nose and ears, consider a sunscreen stick like Petkin SPF15 Doggy Sun Stick.
3. Sun Balm: Provide additional sun protection and skin relief with a sun protection balm like My Dog Nose It! Dog Sun Protection Balm.
4. Sunglasses: Protect your dog’s eyes from UV rays and debris with dog goggles like QUMY Dog UV Protection Sunglasses.
5. Sun Shirt: Consider a UV sun shirt like the Sun Shield Dog Tee for dogs with short coats or light-pigmented skin.
6. Cooling Vest: Keep your pup cool on hot days with a water-activated cooling vest like the Canada Pooch Cooling Dog Vest.
7. Cooling Bandana: For dogs that don’t like wearing vests, a cooling bandana like the Canada Pooch Wet Reveal Smiley Cooling Dog Bandana is a great alternative.
8. Cooling Mat: Provide a cool resting spot for your dog with a pressure-activated cooling mat like the Green Pet Shop’s Cool Pet Pad.
9. Cooling Dog Bed: For indoor cooling, consider a cooling gel dog bed like the FurHaven Comfy Couch Cooling Gel Cat & Dog Bed.
10. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated on outdoor adventures with a portable water bottle like the Highwave AutoDogMug Portable Dog Water Bottle & Bowl.
11. Life Jacket: Ensure water safety with a dog life jacket like the Frisco Ripstop Dog Life Jacket for water activities.
12. Waterproof Shoes: Protect your dog’s paws from hot surfaces with waterproof shoes like QUMY Dog Shoes.
13. Vehicle AC Extender: Keep your pup cool during car rides with an air conditioning extender like the NOGGLE Personal Air Conditioning System.
14. Watersports Traction Pad: Enhance your dog’s grip on watercraft with a traction pad like the Pelican Dog Traction Pad.
15. Water Toy: Add fun to water activities with a durable water toy like the KONG Aqua Dog Toy.
16. First Aid Kit: Be prepared for emergencies with a pet first aid kit like the Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats.
17. Swimming Pool: Provide a cool play area with a pet pool like the Yaheetech Foldable Pet Pool for backyard fun.
18. Sprinkler: Keep your dog cool with a splash pad like the Flying Paws Splash Sprinkler Pad for Dogs.
19. Covered Bed: Offer shade and comfort with an outdoor bed like the K&H Pet Products Original Indoor/Outdoor Covered Elevated Dog Bed.
20. Pet Crate Fan: Keep your dog cool indoors with a crate fan like the O2Cool Treva Pet Crate Fan.
21. Cooling Water Bowl: Ensure fresh and cool water with a cooling pet bowl like the K&H Pet Products Coolin‘ Pet Bowl.
22. Ear Cleaner: Maintain ear health with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner like Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner for Dogs & Cats.
23. Pet Wipes: Keep your dog clean and fresh with wash wipes like Hepper Wash Wipes for outdoor messes.
By investing in these summer essentials, you can ensure that your dog stays safe, comfortable, and happy during the warmer months. Remember to always prioritize your dog’s well-being and consult with your vet for personalized recommendations. Enjoy a fun and safe summer with your furry companion!
