August is one of the best times of the year to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. Longer days, sunny skies and warm evenings are perfect for extra adventures together. But with the fun also comes the need to keep your dog cool, safe and comfortable.
Here are our top tips to make the most of the summer while looking after your dog’s wellbeing.
1. Beat the Heat
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in the middle of the day. Their bodies don’t cool down as easily as ours, and they’re more vulnerable to heatstroke.
Stay safe by:
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Walking early in the morning or later in the evening
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Avoiding hot pavements, which can burn paws
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Offering fresh water regularly, especially when out and about
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Using cooling mats or damp towels at home
If it’s too hot for you, it’s probably too hot for your dog.
2. Take Advantage of Lighter Evenings
Make the most of summer evenings by exploring new walking routes, visiting a local field, or taking your dog on a relaxed evening stroll after the heat dies down. The extra daylight is perfect for adding variety to your walks and helping your dog burn off energy.
Try taking a longer route once a week or switching between different parks or paths to keep things interesting.
3. Summer Activities to Enjoy Together
There are plenty of ways to include your dog in your summer plans:
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Dog-friendly beach trips: Let your dog paddle in the sea and run along the sand
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Garden play: Set up a paddling pool or play fetch in the shade
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Picnics: Bring a comfy blanket, some dog treats and enjoy a peaceful afternoon together
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Training in the park: Work on recall, sit and stay with more distractions around
Always check in advance that places are dog-friendly, and remember to bring poo bags, water and a lead.
4. Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards
Summer comes with a few extra things to keep an eye on:
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Ticks and fleas: Check your dog after walks in long grass and keep up with preventatives
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Grass seeds: These can become embedded in paws, ears or eyes — inspect your dog after walks
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BBQ food: Watch out for dropped bones, skewers or fatty scraps that can cause illness
Keep your dog on a lead where needed, and make sure they have somewhere shady to relax.
5. Keep Travel Comfortable
If you're heading off for a summer holiday or weekend away, plan ahead to make it stress-free for your dog. Bring their usual food, water bowl, bed and a favourite toy. Stick to their routine as much as possible, and make sure the accommodation is dog-friendly.
For car journeys, keep the vehicle well-ventilated and stop regularly for water and toilet breaks.
Final Thoughts
August is a wonderful month for outdoor time with your dog, whether it’s a quiet moment in the garden or a new adventure further afield. Just remember to take the heat into account and adjust your routine to keep your dog happy and healthy.
With a bit of planning, the summer holidays can be just as enjoyable for your dog as they are for you.
