5 Summer Dangers Every Dog Owner Should Know

Summertime is a fun season for you and your pup. 

It’s the chance to get out, stretch your legs more, and spend time with your dog. There are so many activities you have in mind with your dog, and you can’t wait to put all of them on your calendar. 

Not to be a party pooper, but while the summer is fun for you and your pup, this time of year can be equally as dangerous. 

“What’s so dangerous about the summertime?”

If you’re asking that question, then you definitely should keep reading. 

The fun aspects of the summer overshadow the potential dangers that are waiting this time of year. Do you know what those dangers are? 

We’ve narrowed it down to 5 summer dangers that every dog owner should know. 

1. Pool Chemicals

There are several ways that pool chemicals can hurt your dog. For example, just like humans, if enough chlorine water is ingested from a pool, it can cause intestinal irritation. Dogs, however, may be more sensitive to these irritations.

On top of ingestion, there’s the skin reaction to chlorine. It can dry out your dog’s skin which can increase irritation. But the actual chemicals themselves, like pool chlorine tablets not mixed in water, can have devastating impacts on your dog if they got a hold of it. 

2. BBQ Foods & Scraps

The summertime brings a lot of gatherings and merriment. With drinks being handed out and bottles emptying, it might be hard to get a solid hold of the party as the hour's progresses. This, unfortunately, means that keeping an eye on your dog will be harder.

And in these moments of invisibility, your dog could be making a friend with a nearby toddler who has a chicken wing. Remember, dogs cannot eat the bones and because chicken bones are so brittle, there’s risk of breaking and splintering in their throat.

3. Heatstroke

How do you prevent a heat stroke? Paying attention to the weather is crucial to avoiding heat exhaustion in dogs. If it’s too hot or too humid, limiting the amount of time spent outdoors is necessary. When time spent outdoors occurs on these types of days, access to shade and water is of the utmost importance. And it goes without saying, leaving your dog in a parked car - even if the windows are rolled down and shade is available - is not a good idea. 

Here are symptoms of heatstroke to keep an eye out for from American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Health Foundation website, noting that “signs of heat stroke are very similar to the signs seen in humans, although dogs pant more in an effort to cool themselves”:

4. Sunburn

Just because dogs have fur does not mean they cannot get sunburns. That’s inaccurate! Sure, the fur blocks the sun but the ultraviolet rays can work through. This is especially true for short-haired dog breeds. 

If you see any dryness or skin cracking, bring your dog inside and keep them in the shade while they heal to avoid further damage.

Did you know? Many dog owners think they’re helping their dogs cool off by shaving their fur down to their skin. This is actually a disservice to dogs who need protection from the harsh sun during the summer.

5. Toxic Frogs & Other Summer Critters

The Cane Toad and the Colorado River Toad are the two primary types of poisonous frogs. 

Spot Pet Insurance shared, “Both of these toads secrete poisonous substances when they feel threatened. So, if your dog has ambushed one of these toads in your backyard, the toad will likely secrete these toxins, which may lead to your dog consuming the toxin.” 

There are plenty of other bugs and critters that can make the summertime super uncomfortable for your dog. It’s not just frogs!

Be mindful of your surroundings as you venture out this summer with your pup.

This is just a sampling of tips and informational posts we offer at Joyride Harness. You can find more content including tips and tricks and how-tos for caring for your dog on our blog at this section. Feel free to leave a comment with tips you’re looking for!