Summer is just around the corner and for the “dog days” of summer, your pet will need some basic supplies to be happy and healthy while outdoors.
Nametags/ID badges-All dogs should have a nametag and an ID badge. This is the number one rule of pet ownership. Normally, the vet’s office provides a tag with rabies information, yet an ID tag is also important. The tag should list the name of the dog, the dog owner and a valid phone number. ID tags can be purchased and engraved at most pet stores.
Water-Your pet should always have fresh, clean water while outdoors. Try to keep the water in a shaded area. Also, remember that some pets can tip the water bowls over, so it’s important to have multiple water sources around the yard.
Chew toys/bones-Your dog will need something to stave off boredom while you’re away. Look into getting safe outdoor toys for your pet. If you’re going to be outside playing with your dog, disks and frisbees provide endless fetch playtime. A great “cool” toy for your dog during the summer months is the “chilly bone”.
Shade-Just like people, dogs get extremely hot in the summer months. If your dog stays outside, it’s imperative for him/her to have a cool, shaded place to relax. If you have a dog pen with no shade consider getting a pen with a top cover over it. Remember, dogs can get sunburned too, so they need a place to retreat from the sun. During the hot summer months, consider getting your dog a cooling mat or a pet wrap vest. These items keep your pet cool and can be reused time and time again. Also, an inexpensive way to keep dogs happy is a baby pool.
These are just some basic ideas to get your pet ready for hot summer months ahead. Please keep in mind to also keep your dog up-to date on heartworm and flea medications. The summer months are prime time for mosquitoes and it only takes one bite for your dog to become infected with heartworms.
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