Is your canine companion larger than life? Here at Pendleton Veterinary Clinic, we definitely have a soft spot for gentle giants. Some of our favorite patients are big dogs, such as Great Danes and St. Bernards. No matter what size Fido is, you’ll need to adjust his care regimen as the seasons and weather change. In this article, an Anderson, IN vet offers some advice on caring for a big pooch in summer.

Swimming

If your pup likes swimming, then by all means indulge him. Just take proper precautions. Never leave your four-legged friend unattended by water, and don’t take him to places with strong currents or steep drops. If you’re headed to a lake, you’ll also need to make sure it isn’t contaminated by blue-green algae. Of course, not all of our furry pals are good swimmers. If Fido isn’t really cut out for it, he may still enjoy splashing around in a sprinkler or kiddie pool.

Water

Hydration is crucial here. Fido should always have cool, clean water available, both indoors and outdoors. Toss some ice cubes into his bowl on hot days.

Treats

Just like people, dogs may prefer cooler meals in summer. Try keeping kibble or canned food in the fridge. For snacks, opt for things like carrots or green beans, which are both healthy and refreshing. For extra tail wags, get your pooch some doggy ice cream. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Bed

Consider getting your canine pal a raised bed, or hammock bed. The air moving beneath them helps them stay cool.

Safety

We can’t overstate the importance of this one: Never leave your pup in a car unattended! Temperatures inside locked cars can reach deadly levels in just minutes. You’ll also need to keep an eye out for signs that your furry bff is getting too hot. These include heavy panting, disorientation, heavy drool, discolored gums, and diarrhea. If you see any of these, immediately give Fido water, take steps to cool him off, and call your vet or an emergency clinic.

Enjoying Outdoors

It’s usually hottest around noon. Walk and play with Fido in the mornings and evenings, and limit his outdoor time during those scorching midday hours. Also, make sure that your canine buddy always has shade available outside.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Anderson, IN animal clinic.