The Dog Days of Summer
Known as the dog days of summer, July boasts long, hot days with an abundance of sunshine. Originally called the dog days in reference to the timeframe following the rising of the star Sirius – also known as the “Dog Star” – these summer days were first characterized by heat, drought and a feeling of lethargy. Similarly today, the term “dog days” is used to capture the hottest and perhaps most uncomfortable part of the Northern Hemisphere’s summer. Amidst summer’s most intense heat, it is also a time to think of our dogs and how to keep our furry friends safe, comfortable and cool.
As we enter the hottest days of summer to date, our friends at Paws ‘n Claws have some tips and tricks to share to help your pets enjoy the dog days of summer, rather than despise them. From cooling vests to sunscreen to life jackets to bug sprays and more, they have your pet covered when it comes to summer safety and comfort. “Helping your pets stay hydrated and cool is going to keep them at their optimum activity and nutrition levels, impacting their overall health,” explains co-owner Eli Campbell.
One way to keep cool on the hottest of summer days is by putting cooling apparel on your furry pup. Just as some dogs might wear a winter jacket to keep warm, some dogs enjoy wearing summer cooling vests to keep cool. At Paws ‘n Claws you can find Ruffwear’s evaporation-based cooling vests, harnesses and neck gaiters, along with Goldpaw’s sunshield tee to provide UPF50+ sun protection - for short-haired pups, sun protection is also key, especially in the sunshine-filled state of Colorado.
Speaking of keeping your pet cool, it is worth mentioning the hot car factor and what it can do to your pet. On a warm summer day, leaving your pet in an enclosed vehicle for just a few minutes can cause permanent brain damage, multiple organ failure or even death. “70 degrees outside with windows even cracked in a vehicle can turn to 104 degrees inside the car quickly,” explains Eli. “80 degrees outside turns to 114 very quickly unless the windows are completely rolled down and in the shade.” Signage is posted in the front of the store regarding the dangers of a hot vehicle, and our friends at Paws ‘n Claws have solved that problem by welcoming you and your pet into their store. Not only is it an exceptionally fun field trip for your furry friend, but it is also guaranteed to be a safe one in the summer - complete with fresh water and of course, treats!
Even with the windows cracked, the interior temperatures of your vehicle can quickly become extremely dangerous for your dog!
Sunscreen is another thing to consider during the dog days of summer and is extremely important for some breeds. Pit bulls, bull terriers, white boxers and Dalmatians, along with other breeds with shorter and lighter coats, are at more risk for sun damage. Just like humans, these furry – and sometimes not furry enough – dogs need protection with prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Paws ‘n Claws stocks Lucky Pup sunscreen for all dogs to help protect noses, ears and any other unprotected areas. As human sunscreens are toxic to pets, Lucky Pup offers 100% natural beeswax-based sunscreen that is a safe and water-resistant sun protector for summer adventures with your furry friend.
“Parents don’t hesitate to lather up their kids with sunscreen and bug spray before sending them off to summer camp, but don’t often think about their dogs. Cancer in pets stems from the sun, just like in humans, and we can protect them with sunscreen, just like we do ourselves,” says co-owner Erin Campbell.
Sunscreen can be just as important for your canine family members as it is for your children!
In a similar realm, bug spray repellent is also a way to keep your pet safe during the peskiest parts of summer. While flea and tick repellent can be taken orally – and should be as provided by your veterinarian – an additional layer of protection is offered with dog-safe sprays. Mosquitos also pose a threat to our furry friends as they can transmit canine heartworm, among other illnesses. While heartworm medication from your vet should be taken regularly, in some areas, dog-safe mosquito repellent is also helpful in combating these annoying and dangerous insects. “Pets can get mosquito-borne illnesses just like we can, so it’s important to protect them too,” explains store employee Beccy Brane. Offering a variety of sprays, shampoos, oils and collars to keep pesky insects away, Paws ‘n Claws has your pet’s safety and summer comfort in mind.
The dog days of summer are a wonderful time to adventure with your pup, especially on or around water, where you can take full advantage of Mother Nature’s cooling mechanisms. Lakes and rivers are the perfect spot to play, and Paws ‘n Claws offers Ruffwear and Outward Hound life jackets to keep your dog safe on the water. While many dogs enjoy taking a dip from the shore to cool off, when you’re out on a paddleboard, boat or perhaps rafting, having a life jacket on your pup is safe and quite helpful when you need to use the grab handles to pull your furry friend back aboard.
Life jackets can help your dogs enjoy river activities safely.
With the summer heat upon us and ahead of us, “we want to find ways to keep our pets cool, comfortable and hydrated, and not end up with heat stroke, dehydration or worse,” says Beccy. Finding ways to help your furry friend stay safe, comfortable and cool will allow them to maintain their optimum health while also enjoying – and not despising – the dog days of summer.
