Paw-friendly summer

Follow these tips to keep your four-legged friends happy in the heat

The scorching heat takes a toll not only on humans, but on animals as well. If you own a dog or you can care for a street dog, save them from the heat by keeping them hydrated and don't serve them day old food in the summer season, suggest experts. Rashi Narang, Founder at Heads Up For Tails, and Akshay Kanitkar, Director – Operations at PetSutra, have listed ways for you to keep your paw-friends happy. Keep them indoors during the day: Do not take your pets for a walk during the scorching day hours. Ensure walks are restricted to only early mornings and post-sunset during the summer months. Dogs are extremely sensitive to heat and apart from falling ill, they may also develop cracks on their paws due to walking on the hot concrete during the days. Be sure to look at your dog's paws to check for discoloration, cuts, and bruises. Apply dog paw cream regularly and make them wear dog socks to prevent the paws from burning.

Travelling: Avoid going for long drives with your pet, as the heat is too strong for him/her to handle. Also, do not leave your dog in your car during summers.

Grooming and spa: Take your dog out for regular grooming sessions, including a bath and trimming of coat only if necessary. Contrary to popular belief, it is not advisable to shave off your dog’s coat in summers as their coats are protective layers that safeguard them from sunburns and heat strokes.

Sponge with wipes: Since it is neither possible nor advisable to bathe your dog multiple times in a week, occasional wet wipe sponging followed by thorough drying and brushing of coat can also be a good way to remove dirt, allowing their skin to breathe better and cool off.

Brush well everyday: It helps manage circulation of blood better and aids in temperature control. Take them for cool dip on the weekends: If your dog is comfortable with and exposed to swimming, nothing beats a good swim session and some fun splashing around in a pool.