Guide to Safe Summer Adventures with Your Dog

Summer is a fantastic time for outdoor activities and adventures with your dog, but it also brings some challenges and risks. As temperatures rise, it's important to ensure your furry friend stays safe, cool and comfortable. This guide will provide you with essential tips and advice on how to enjoy summer safely with your dog. From preventing heatstroke to finding the best dog-friendly activities, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into how you can make this summer fun and safe for both you and your dog!

To keep your dog cool in hot weather, schedule long runs and intense activities during the coolest parts of the day. If that’s not possible, follow these tips: break fast-paced activities into short bursts, offer water often and shade between activities, avoid running on hot asphalt, choose shaded paths near water, and monitor your dog’s body language.

Beat the heat with a cooling vest for your dog. Ideal for activities like jogging, hiking, or sports, the vest uses evaporative cooling to regulate your dog's temperature. It fits snugly, does not restrict movement, and is perfect for daily use.
1. Dip it in cold water: Soak the vest in cold water before dressing it to the dog. Make sure the whole vest gets evenly wet.
2. Wring out excess water: After soaking an evaporative cooling wrap, gently wring out any excess water to prevent dripping while still retaining enough moisture for effective evaporation.
3. Fit it on your dog: Carefully put the cooling vest on your dog and adjust the fastenings so that the vest fits snugly but comfortably. A vest that is too loose will not stay in place and will not provide effective cooling.
4. Check on your dog: Check your dog regularly during use to make sure he is comfortable and not stressed or uncomfortable with the vest on. If you notice any signs of discomfort, check the fit of the vest and adjust if necessary.
5. Rewetting the vest: Simply rewet the vest if it dries out, and rinse it after usage to maintain its effectiveness.
6. Remember safety: Never leave your dog alone unsupervised in hot environment. Wear the vest for a few hours at a time, taking breaks. When the vest is completely dry, it’s a good idea to remove it.

Dogs enjoy cooling treats in the summer, much like we do with ice cream. Freeze dog food morsels inside ice cubes or serve their favorite treats cold to keep them happy. Ensure they always have fresh water, placed in a shaded area, and add a few ice cubes to enhance the cooling effect while monitoring their hydration.

Swimming is an excellent way to cool down your dog and regulate their body temperature, preventing overheating and heat-related illnesses. Additionally, swimming provides a low-impact form of exercise that helps to keep dogs fit and active without putting strain on their joints, making it especially beneficial for older dogs or those with mobility issues. Moreover, swimming can be mentally stimulating for dogs, providing an opportunity for them to explore and play in a different environment. Finally, it's simply a lot of fun for many dogs, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors and bond with their human companions while staying cool and refreshed. Read more of Hurtta's tips for swimming with your dog here.

During outdoor time, always provide shaded areas for your dog to escape the sun. Create cool spots with large stones or tiles, ensuring they stay comfortable even in hot weather. Indoors, encourage your dog to relax on tiled floors to beat the summer heat.

Summer travel with dogs requires careful consideration. Never leave your dog unattended in a car, as temperatures can rise rapidly even in the shade with windows open. Ensure proper air circulation around your dog during travel, avoiding tightly packed luggage around their carrier, and consider using cooling vests, mats, or a nearby fan for added comfort. Plan for regular stops and hydration breaks to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable throughout the journey.

Pro tip!
When setting off on a trip, you can freeze the vest the night before and keep it in a freezer bag during transport. This way, you can enjoy a cool vest to wear in the afternoon heat during a workout or hike. Please note that the cooling vest should not be frozen when you dress your dog, as short-haired dogs can get frostbite from a frozen vest.