Summer is the season of sun-soaked days, beach trips, and barbecues. While we humans revel in the warmth, our furry friends need a little extra care to enjoy the sunny season safely. Ensuring your dog is safe and comfortable during the hot months is crucial.
This summer, we have partnered with the award-winning First Aid For Life & First Aid For Pets to learn about some key tips on how to keep your dog safe in the sun. First Aid For Pets cover this topic in all of their practical and online first aid courses – and PetsPyjamas has an exclusive discount, keep reading!
This guide will not only help you keep your canine companion cool and happy during the summer months but also introduce you to some fabulous dog-friendly getaways from the PetsPyjamas summer collection – many with exclusive offers and added extras you won’t find anywhere else. These properties promise a pawsome holiday for you and a cool spot for your canine.
How to keep your pup safe in the sun…
Hydration is Key
Just like us dogs can get dehydrated quickly in the hot weather. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water. And when you’re out and about, carry a collapsible water bowl and a bottle of water.
PetsPyjamas Tip: Why not stay at The Mole Resort in Devon where PetsPyjamas has a Barking Britain lodge offer with fabulous doggie welcome pack and where you can explore scenic trails with plenty of shady sports.
Avoid the Midday Sun
The sun is strongest between 11 am and 3 pm. During these hours, it’s best to keep your dog indoors or in the shade. Early morning or late evening are always best for walks.
PetsPyjamas Pick: Stay at The Godolphin in Cornwall which offers beautiful early morning beach walks and stunning sunsets on the Marazion coast. Plus, their shaded garden is perfect for a cool afternoon nap.
Protect Those Paws
Hot pavements can burn your dog’s paws. Test the ground with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Walking on grass or using protective booties can help.
PetsPyjamas Getaway: Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Burley Manor Country Spa and Hotel provides ample grassy areas and cool shaded forest trails, ensuring your pup’s paws stay safe and cool.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
Even with windows ajar, a car can become a furnace in minutes. On a 75°F day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb to 100°F in just 10 minutes. Always take your dog out of the car or leave it in a cool room at home.
Sunscreen for Dogs
Dogs can get sunburned too, especially those with short or light-coloured fur. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose, ears, and belly.
Keep Them Cool
There are plenty of ways for your dog to cool off. Children’s paddling pools, cooling mats, and ice packs wrapped in a towel can be lifesavers. You can also make tasty frozen lollies with dog-friendly ingredients.
PetsPyjamas Destination: Glassonby Old Hall in the Lake District features a large, fenced garden with plenty of shade and spacious rooms for your dog to relax, making it a perfect summer retreat.
Watch for Signs of Overheating
Heatstroke is a serious risk for dogs in hot weather. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, and lethargy. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool area, offer water, and contact a vet immediately.
Planning Your Trip
When booking a dog-friendly holiday, it’s important to prepare for your pet’s needs. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth trip:
- Vet Check: Before you go, make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Packing List: Bring all your dog’s essentials, including food, bowls, a bed, toys, a first-aid kit, a spare lead, doggie sacks and any medications.
- Travel Safely: Use a pet seatbelt or a travel crate to keep your dog secure in the car. Take regular breaks for water and bathroom stops.
- Local Vet: Research local vets at your destination, just in case of emergencies. PetsPyjamas also offers a 24-hour Vetline cover.
Keeping your dog safe in the sun is all about preparation and vigilance. By following these tips, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys the summer as much as you do. And with the fantastic, dog-friendly properties from PetsPyjamas, your next holiday is guaranteed to be a wooftastic adventure for both you and your pet. So, pack your bags, grab your dog’s lead, and head to one of these amazing destinations for a fun, sun-safe holiday.
About First Aid For Pets
First Aid for Pets is an Award Winning Dog First Aid training provider empowering all pet lovers with the skills and confidence to help their pet – in those first vital minutes before you can get to a Vet.
First Aid for Pets is delighted to offer PetsPyjamas customers 20% off our First Aid for Dogs online course. Use the code: couponpetspyjamas20 or follow this link HERE
Fun in the Sun: PetsPyjamas Summer Collection
Now that you’re equipped with summer safety tips, it’s time to plan your sun-safe holiday! Here are some top picks from the PetsPyjamas summer collection that guarantee a fantastic, dog-friendly break.
A culinary coastal sanctuary with seven boutique bedrooms set overlooking the golden sands of Mundesley Beach. Surrounded by sandy beaches where your pup can splash in the waves to their heart’s content plus spacious cliff-top gardens.
A Georgian coaching Inn situated in Newport, in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Coastal Haven with an enclosed garden, nearby Newport beach are perfect for early morning strolls and is dog-friendly year-round.
Just a stone’s throw from the chic seaside town of Salcombe, this ultra dog-friendly hotel and spa is situated right next to Soar Mill Cove – a year-round dog-friendly beach where your dog can keep cool off in the sea.
Country Retreats and Lodges
Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque villages, Meadow View Cottage is a serene countryside escape. The expansive garden is great for dogs to run and play, and the nearby woodlands offer shaded walking trails to explore.
This lakeside lodge with views of Lake Windemere is perfect for water-loving dogs. Spend the day swimming or paddling in the lake and retreat to the cool interior of the lodge during the hottest part of the day. The large deck area is great for relaxing evenings with a view.
A stunning two-bedroom lodge in Allerston, North Yorkshire with a hot tub and wood-burning stove close to the North Yorks Moors National Park with incredible dog-friendly trails in the shady woodland.
