#InternationalDogDay: 10 tips to keep your dog happy in the summer

Happy International Dog Day! Here’s a look at some tips and tricks to keep your furry friends in good shape over the summer season. From burnt paws to dry skin, here’s a look at some common things that may ail your four-legged pal and how to avoid them.

Should I give my dog a summer haircut? Before deciding on a dramatic haircut for your pet, it is advisable to discuss grooming with your vet. Fur protects animals not only from the cold, but also from other elements including sun exposure. Grooming fur back too excessively could do more harm than good, exposing your pet to a greater risk of sunburn or skin disorders.

Think about double coats: Dog breeds such as huskies, Bernese mountain dogs, Shiba Inus, old English sheepdogs and labrador retrievers all have fluffy double-coats to protect them from the weather conditions their breeds are naturally accustomed to. The undercoat acts as the main protection, while the topcoat protects from moisture and dirt.

Brushing, combing: When temperatures start to increase, dogs will naturally begin to shed their fur. Help them along with the process by brushing them daily with the correct brush for their breed.

How often should I bathe them? "When he or she smells". If your dog spends most of its time indoors, then bathing with vet-approved dog shampoo can be done every couple of months. If they are prone to digging in the sand or soil when out on walks, you can rinse them off when you come home and increase the bathing schedule to once a month.

Is there such a thing as over-bathing? Yes! It is important not to bathe more than is necessary, as your dog produces natural oils to keep its skin and fur healthy. Too many baths can result in dry, flaky skin and can cause the coat to become dull. Dogs with certain skin conditions may need bathing multiple times a week to control those problems. We always try to negate this by supporting the skin against becoming dry.

Can I use my own shampoo? No. Dogs are prone to medical conditions such as allergic skin disease, so never use human products on them. Always consult your vet about what animal-safe products you can use when bathing your pet.

Should I take my dog swimming? If you do decide to allow your dog to swim, take them to a swimming pool specifically for dogs. However, a healthy dog, not bathed too frequently will have good protection against chlorine with the natural oils in their skin.

Helping with heat. Did you know? The average body temperature for dogs is between 38 and 39 degrees Celsius - This is approximately two degrees higher than that of a human. This means that if you feel hot, your pet will feel even hotter. Animals’ ability to self-regulate their temperature is not as advanced as ours, so keeping them cool and properly hydrated is vital.

When should I walk my dog? Dogs sweat through their paws, so it’s important to avoid any kind of injury, including burns. During summer, dogs shouldn’t be walked between 6.30am and 7pm. This should avoid the ground being too hot for their paw pads. Keep to shaded areas and always carry water for them to drink along the way.

What temperature should I leave my AC at when I’m not home? When leaving pets at home, you should always ensure the area is properly ventilated and the AC is left on no higher than 24 degrees Celsius. Also, don't ever leave your dog in the car alone. If left in direct sun light the temperature inside the car can rise to 80 degrees Celsius. As the heat rises, the oxygen available decreases and it can take as little as six minutes for a dog to succumb to the heat and die.