The Dog Days of Summer by Shelley Long July and August traditionally have the hottest temperatures of the summer, and when we struggle to keep cool, so do our dogs. Hot pavement, ticks, and soaring temperatures can make your pet miserable. Here are some suggestions to help you and your dog have a safe and enjoyable summer. June and July is peak tick season in Ontario and while regular grooming and tick preventative products are important, if you find one on you or your dog, remove it as soon as possible. Tick keys remove ticks safely and effectively from people and pets and you can keep it on your pet’s collar. Humans and animals need to drink more water when it’s hot. There are plenty of collapsible water bowls and squirt bottles on the market to use on walks and provide access to fresh, cool water at home both indoors and out. I keep a bowl of fresh water on my porch for the neighbourhood dogs during the summer.
We like frozen treats in the summer and so does your dog, as long as they are made from pet friendly ingredients. Frozen fruits like blueberries or bananas, or frozen yoghurt, pumpkin, or peanut butter cubes are great. Even plain ice cubes will work, but avoid treats with added sugar, salt or Xylitol (a sugar substitute), which can be toxic for your dog. We need sunscreen and sunglasses outdoors and some dogs do too. If your dog has thin, or light-coloured fur, consider using a dog specific sunscreen. Some older dogs with cataracts or other eye conditions benefit from wearing dog sunglasses.
Cooling mats, paddling pools, cooling coats, and collars are all excellent methods of keeping your canine companion comfortable in the heat. Huskies are not big fans of water, and one in my neighbourhood has her own way of enjoying her kiddie pool.
Try to walk your dog in the early mornings or evenings when the temperatures are cooler and let them take frequent rest breaks in the shade. If the pavement is too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Above all, never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the window cracked open. Know the signs of heatstroke in dogs (excessive panting/salivating), vomiting, diarrhea, dis- orientation) and if your dog displays any of these, get them somewhere cool immediately and call your vet.
Photos: Left column: Stanley and, Dahlia. Above: Finnigan and MacClean.
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Old East Villager July-August 2025 • Page 11
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