Summer Love and Your Golden

Happy Goldens + water = lots of LOVE!

We're in the heart of Summer and the weather has been continually hot in Southern California. Our annual fire season is well underway with sever major fires having burned key areas up and down the region. During this summer there are steps you can take to ensure your golden's safety during this hot dry summer.

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, HYDRATE! Water is essential for keeping you healthy and it's no different for our beloved goldens. Please make sure there is plenty of water available for them during the day. If you decide to go on a hike, please make sure you have at least one gallon of water for you and your pet during your outdoor jaunt. Also, goldens sometimes enjoy ice cubes to keep themselves cool.

Mommy, I want a GRCGLAR Golden....

2. Exercise in early morning or later evening - By walking or exercising during these times, you can take advantage of relatively cooler weather which will make your walk more enjoyable as well.

3. Hot pavement means your dogs pads can get burned - Dogs have thicker surfaces on their paw pads. However, this means they are also susceptible to burning those pads during extreme sunlight or heat. Try and limit the time your golden is walking during the day or on a hot sidewalk or surface.

4. NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG in a CLOSED CAR - In many states, this is against the law. The internal temperature of a car can exceed 150 degree in a very short time.

5. Kiddie Pools offer a great summer oasis for your pet - Filling your kiddie sized pool with water can provide a quick solution to beat the heat and provide for some great doggie pictures too. But do remember to refill the water if necessary. A shallow pool can heat up quickly if left in direct sunlight.

6. Bring your dogs inside where it's cooler - By keeping your dog inside, you make them comfortable and stress-free. Plus you get plenty of golden loving in the process.

7. In the event of a brush fire in your area, make sure you are prepared to evacuate YOUR PET TOO. Ensure you bring adequate food and necessary medicines with your pet during your evacuation and listen to the news and or social media sources for the latest of the brushfire's progress.

One last word regarding summer and your dog is needed: Heat Stroke is possible for your pet during this time of year. Symptoms of possible heat stroke include: heavy noisy breathing, lethargy or sluggishness, or trouble swallowing. If you suspect your golden is suffering from heatstroke, bring your dog into a cooler area immediately and place cold towels on their head and body to cool their body temperature down. If you do not see signs of improvement, please see your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY.

Keeping your pet cooler during these summer months is not a hard thing to do but requires you to check in with your dog to make sure they are not in distress. By keeping them comfortable, you're ensuring another summer of happy memories for both of you.