How to Keep Your Dog Comfortable During Outdoor Activities?
A dog's idea of a comfortable afternoon outside looks different in July than it does in January. The instinct to just "go for a walk" doesn't change much across the year, but what that walk should look like does. Keeping a dog comfortable during outdoor activities is about adjusting a few habits as the weather changes and paying attention to what your dog is actually telling you along the way. In this blog, we will discuss how to keep your dog comfortable during outdoor activities.
Parasite Prevention
Modern living conditions allow many species to survive beyond traditional “parasite seasons.” Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes carrying heartworm disease are more active during warmer months; but they can pose a threat year-round.
Some pets are allergic to the saliva from flea bites (flea allergy dermatitis), which may result in excessive scratching and skin infections. Ticks can spread Lyme disease. That is why, year-round parasite prevention is recommended to protect your pet’s health and comfort.
Each pet’s needs are different, and many options, including oral and topical preventives, collars, and injectable products, are available. For example, Bravecto for Dogs is one option pet parents can discuss with their veterinarian when choosing suitable flea and tick protection. Your veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate option based on your pet’s age, weight, lifestyle, health, and any specific regional risks. You can explore the vet-recommended parasite preventives for dogs from reputable platforms, such as CanadaPetCare, at affordable rates.
Outdoor Timing
The biggest factor in outdoor comfort is timing. In hot months, early morning and evening hours are cooler and safer than the middle of the day, as heat tends to peak in the late afternoon. In cold months, consider shorter outings and monitor your dog closely rather than relying on a single temperature cut-off.
An individual dog’s tolerance also shifts by season. Larger dogs with heavy coats might handle cold better than a smaller breed with short hair, but struggle more in summer heat. Avoid assuming that shaving a dog’s coat is the best way to keep them cool. Ask your veterinarian, as grooming needs vary by breed. In cold weather, invest in a sweater or jacket for your pet to wear outside.
Senior dogs, dogs with arthritis, and dogs with certain health conditions often need extra consideration in both hot and cold weather. Cold can aggravate joint pain, while heat puts more strain on an already taxed system.
Protect the Paws
Paws take a beating outdoors no matter the weather. In summer, sidewalks and asphalt can be dangerously hot for your dog’s paws. A quick way to check is to place the back of your hand against the walking surface for about seven seconds. If you can’t comfortably keep it there, choose a grassy or shaded path or wait until the surface has cooled. For additional sun protection, you can also ask your veterinarian about a sunscreen formulated specifically for pets.
A dry and cold winter can cause cracked pads, and snow can pack painfully between the toes. Also, de-icing products can hurt paws or cause stomach upset if licked off. You can consider properly fitted dog booties or paw balm. Moreover, don’t forget to wipe down paws after being outdoors.
Water Accessibility
Make sure fresh water is available for your dog. Sometimes it's just easy to forget that outdoor water bowls can freeze solid in winter or turn very hot in the summer, leaving a dog without access when they need it the most. You should change the bowls with fresh water frequently. Bring fresh water and a portable bowl, and avoid letting your dog drink from stagnant water or puddles, which can make them sick.
Recognize Problems
Comfort during outdoor time depends on catching discomfort early, and the early signs look different depending on the season.
Excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, seeking shade, and slowing down are typical first signs of heat stress. If that progresses to vomiting, collapse, stumbling, or abnormal responsiveness, it's an emergency, and a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.
In the cold weather, shivering, lethargy, reluctance to keep walking, and seeking out warm places to burrow are early warning signs. Left unaddressed, prolonged cold exposure can lead to hypothermia or frostbite. Consult your veterinarian immediately.
Year-round Outdoor Safety
Some rules don't change with the seasons; you have to take care of things at any time.
A parked car can become dangerous fast in either extreme heat or cold weather, so a dog should never be left alone in one, even for a short time.
Collar ID and Microchip: Nobody wants to think about their dog getting lost, but it happens. Your dog should wear a collar and ID tag so they can be identified. Microchipping provides a permanent form of identification that can help reunite you with your dog if they are lost. Just make sure you keep the information up to date.
Sturdy leash: When you take your dog outside, it’s always best to use a quality leash to secure your dog.
Supervise: It can be tempting to let your dog run freely at the dog park while you catch up with your friends or check your phone. You should still know where your dog is and what is happening around them.
Final Thoughts
Rather than skipping your dog’s outdoor time altogether when the weather changes, gear them up properly. Before you head out for a fun outdoor activity with your dog, make sure you have everything you need, such as a collar with an ID tag, a sturdy leash, and plenty of water. Also, keep your dog protected with parasite preventives so that you can have peace of mind that your beloved dog is safe outdoors from harmful parasites.
