Summer is a fun time of year for everyone—after all, both dogs and humans love time in the sun—but hot weather means that summer safety tips are more important than ever. With rising temperatures across the country, keeping your dog cool is essential. Thankfully, Hounds Town provides the opportunity for your pup to get all their energy out without overheating. Indoor doggy daycare can be a game changer for restless pups in the hot weather.
Looking for some summer safety tips for keeping your dog cool and active? Here’s what we recommend:
Tip 1: Avoid Midday Walks
When the summer sun is at its peak, pavement temperatures can skyrocket—hot enough to burn your dog’s paws. To avoid overheating and injury, one important summer safety tip for dogs is to opt for walks in the early morning or later evening when it’s cooler. As a good rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably rest the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot to take your dog on a walk. Always watch for signs of heat stress, like heavy panting or sluggishness, and head indoors if your dog starts to get overheated.
Tip 2: Always Provide Access to Fresh Water
Hydration is key during hot weather, so make sure your dog always has access to clean, cool water both inside and outside. Consider placing multiple bowls around your home or using spill-proof travel containers when you’re out and about. Just like with humans, high heat can cause dehydration in dogs—so keeping their water bowls full is a must. If your pup is overheated, you’ll notice them panting, which means more water will keep them hydrated and ready to play.
Tip 3: Skip the Dog Park—Try Doggy Daycare Instead
While the dog park might seem like a great way to help your pup burn off energy, it can be risky during high summer temps. Without adequate shade, supervision, or access to fresh water, dogs can overheat quickly, especially when they’re excited and active. Plus, the unpredictability of a dog park environment can add stress on already sweltering days.
At Hounds Town, we offer a safer, cooler alternative: doggy daycare indoors. Our climate-controlled facilities give your dog all the benefits of exercise and socialization without the danger of the summer heat. Managed by expert staff who understand dog behavior and canine psychology, our natural pack environment allows dogs to move, rest, and play naturally, at their own pace. Dog daycare is the perfect outlet to keep your pup physically and mentally fulfilled, no matter how hot it gets outside.
Tip 4: Know the Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Summer fun can quickly turn dangerous if your pup gets too hot. Watch for signs like excessive panting, drooling, red gums, or lethargy—these can all indicate overheating or even heatstroke. Short-nosed breeds, senior dogs, and pups with medical conditions are especially vulnerable. When in doubt, move your dog to a cool space, offer water, and contact your vet immediately.
Tip 5: Make the Most of Indoor Activities
On days when it’s just too hot to be outside, indoor play can help keep your dog active and happy. Whether you’re bringing your pup to Hounds Town for the day or simply playing with them inside at home, there’s always a way to get some energy out. If your dog is bored at home this summer, visit us to keep them active even when the temperatures are sweltering.
Your dog’s health and safety are our top priorities. Doggy daycare is a great solution for keeping dogs cool, fulfilled, and engaged in warmer weather. Find your local Hounds Town today!