Whew! Hi, Summer!

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Enjoying Summer Safely During Heatwaves

Summer months can be tricky when it comes to balancing between exercise and safety.

Morning and evening walks are of course the more common accommodation for avoiding the heat of the day, but be sure to ‘test’ the ground before your dog ventures out. Hold your hand flat on the ground for at least 30 seconds, and if it’s uncomfortable for you, it’ll be uncomfortable for them.

🐾 An easy option to avoid blistering paw pads is to get your pupperoo properly fitted with a set of boots. We have two companies who offer summer boots – you and your pup can walk safely (and bonus that they keep their feet clean from all the other icks on the ground…clean floors and upholstery!)

Sniff work and keeping their brains occupied can be the best option for tiring out your dog during the hottest days of the year. When dogs sniff/hunt scents, they’re not only breathing quickly, but they’re activating parts of their brain which satisfy some of their most principle needs in life. This can help reduce anxiety (also great during fireworks, thunderstorms, and other times when stress may spike), and provides active focus, indoor/backyard exercise, and above all else, enhances your bond when you’re participating in something they love.

15 Minutes Sniffing = 1 Hour Walking
Some great option include puzzles/snuffle mats, hiding treats in cardboard inserts from toilet paper/paper towels, or even just an extremely slow walk around the block letting them dictate the pace and follow their nose (while watching for traffic, of course).
Need a low-calorie option? Cucumber, watermelon, and other similar foods can give them a cool, crunchy, refreshing snack. Cucumber is Archie’s fave – be sure to start of slowly when introducing any new food, to not disrupt their digestion. Archie’s used to cucumbers, and gets about 1 mini, or 3″ of a regular one most days.