A Ruff Day Bark Club loves summer. Long days leave time for lots of play and bonding time with our pups. It’s time for fun in the sun, but it’s also time to factor in ways to cool down and stay hydrated. How can you best navigate the warm summer months with your pup in mind? Here are some ideas.
1. Stay Cool
Water is the word! If you have a pool, plan swim time with your pup. No pool no problem. And apartment living doesn’t have to mean no water. Kiddie pools aren’t just for kids. Use them in small spaces like patios or big spaces for splash-throughs like your backyard. Dogs like sprinklers too. You can run through together and show your pup how to have fun in the water. Make sure to offer plenty of water breaks during outdoor activity.
It might also be a fun time to learn new water tricks. If you’ve ever considered dock jumping, summer is a great time to start. Look for certified instructors in your area.
2. Tasty Summer Treats
Summer is a great time for cool treats. You can find pup-friendly ice cream and doggy ice pops in your local supermarket or make your own by freezing yogurt (plain and xylitol-free of course) and peanut butter or berries in ice cream trays. Dogs can also chomp down on some hydrating chunks of watermelon once the seeds and rind are removed. Freeze water inside toys so pups can chew and cool down at the same time!
3. Be Sun Smart
Make the most of morning and evening sun for cooler temps and less UV rays. If you have to go out in prime sun time, make it quick or introduce water play. Choose early mornings to hit nature trails and parks. Start planning for a twilight stroll (as long as the bugs aren’t too bad).
Find a cool place to hang out during daytime hours. Now is a perfect time to become a member of A Ruff Day Bark Club or invite your friends to join you! Enriching doggy daycare is like summer camp for dogs. Members can hang out in the lounge and sip a cool beverage while their pups play.
4. Plan for the Weather
You’ll be ready for a walk and inevitably hear the low rumble of thunder. If your pup is afraid of storms, try working in some calming techniques now before summer weather really ramps up. Watch your dog and note their behavior before and during storms.
WebMD.com’s pet section suggests a few tricks like letting your dog come and go freely to a place where they feel comfortable. If that’s hiding behind a toilet, make sure they have access to it. They also suggest using a snug garment. Lots of brands offer close-fitting shirts or wraps to make your pup feel soothed.
Now is also the time to make an emergency weather plan. Where will you and your pup shelter in the event of a severe thunderstorm? Is your area affected by hurricanes? Find out which local shelters allow dogs so you’ll have your evacuation plan in place.
Come and hang out with us this summer at A Ruff Day Bark Club! Now is the time to take advantage of our indoor amenities and stay cool. We’re ready for playtime with customized doggy daycare, birthday “pawties,” training classes, grooming, and access to our indoor playground (when available). We can’t wait to see our four-legged and two-legged members new and old.