Walking Your Dog in Summer and Winter: Tips to Keep Them Comfortable All Year Round
Walking your dog has many benefits, including helping them stay fit and healthy. Some dogs enjoy it so much that they’ll pull you down the street if you let them, which can be unsafe if you’re in an area with traffic or crowds of people. However, walking your dog in cold weather can make it uncomfortable for both of you, while hot weather can be difficult on him if he doesn’t have water to drink. Use these tips to make sure your dog enjoys walking all year round no matter what the weather is like outside!
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Warming up:
Just like us, dogs need to warm up before physical activity. In summer, start with shorter walks and gradually increase the length as your pup gets used to the heat. In winter, walk at a brisk pace to get their blood flowing. Do they have sufficient shelter? If not, make sure they have a doghouse or shed that is well insulated. Be mindful of road salt which can irritate paws and cause cracking. Bring water along on your walk so they can drink often! Sometimes it may be necessary to offer ice cubes for pets who are prone to overheating. Use quality dog food during the warmer months and less protein-rich foods when it's cold outside. Provide an indoor area for them where they can take breaks from sun exposure if necessary, such as under a porch or patio canopy. During winter storms, check for potential dangers like slippery ice, downed power lines, or flooded areas and prepare accordingly - these safety tips will keep both you and your furry friend safe all year round!
A well-fitted coat:
In the winter, a well-fitted coat is key to keeping your dog comfortable. Make sure the coat is snug but not too tight, and that it covers their belly. A coat with a hood can help protect their ears from the cold. In the summer, a lighter weight coat or even just a harness can help keep your dog cool while you're out walking. If they start to overheat, stop and offer them water. The best way to keep your dog safe during the summer is by giving them plenty of fresh drinking water. Bring along ice cubes for added refreshment on hot days. Be mindful of potentially dangerous surfaces like blacktop, asphalt, concrete and sand when choosing an outdoor route in the heat of summertime. Use caution when crossing streets as cars can be blinding in sunlight and hard to see until they are right next to you.
What type of collar should I use?:
The type of collar you use on your dog can make a big difference in their comfort during walks. In the summer, a light-weight nylon or cotton collar is ideal. In the winter, a thicker, fleece-lined collar can help keep your dog's neck warm. If you live in an area with a lot of snow, you may even want to invest in a dog coat. Remember that when you walk your dog, there are two of you--so be sure to dress for the weather as well! In the winter, it is especially important to layer clothing so that you do not get too cold while walking your dog. Consider wearing a hat, gloves, and several layers of clothes if necessary
Cooling down:
In the summer, it's important to keep your dog cool when you're out walking them. The pavement can get incredibly hot, so try to walk on grass whenever possible. If it's too hot to walk during the day, go early in the morning or later at night. And always have water with you for your dog to drink. Keeping them hydrated is essential! Dogs that are overheated will pant excessively and might also drool excessively as they try to cool themselves down. They might even start vomiting if they're not cooled down quickly enough. You'll know because their ears will be red and their tongue will be bright pink (or there might be signs of blood in their vomit).
Finding shade:
When it's hot out, the best place for your pup is in the shade. Trees, awnings, and even other people's umbrellas can provide some relief from the sun's rays. And don't forget about doggy sunscreen! Just like us, our four-legged friends can get sunburned. In addition to applying sunscreen (avoiding areas that are sensitive or have thin skin), try walking your dog early in the morning or later at night when it's not as hot. If you're unable to walk during these hours, bring water along with you. Even if your dog doesn't want to drink water on their own, you can force them by squirting the water into their mouth. Also, be sure to give them plenty of time outside so they can cool down before returning indoors. However, just because it's cold outside doesn't mean your dog should go without exercise. Bundle up with a winter coat and boots before heading out into the snow. Bring along an extra towel to wipe off any slushy messes your dog may track inside on their paws after playing in puddles or running through snow drifts.
Carrying water:
In the summer, it's important to carry water with you when you walk your dog. They can get dehydrated quickly, especially if they're panting a lot. Make sure you have a water bowl for them to drink from when you get home, too. In the winter, ice can form on puddles and ponds, so it's important to break the ice before your dog drinks from them. Carrying a water bottle and bowl will help prevent them from drinking any unsafe water. It's also important to keep an eye out for antifreeze spills or other harmful chemicals on the ground that could be dangerous. If you think your dog has ingested something poisonous, contact a veterinarian immediately.
conclusion:
In conclusion, it's important to take the weather into consideration when walking your dog. In summer, be sure to walk them early in the morning or evening to avoid the heat, and provide them with plenty of water. In winter, keep an eye on the pavement for salt and de-icer, which can be harmful to their paws. With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy walks with your furry friend all year round!
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