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Victoria's Top 10 Summer Tips

Summertime is a great time to grab the leash and head outdoors! From vacations and pool parties to fun in the park, there are plenty of activities to share with your best furry friends. But make sure your pooch plays it cool with Victoria's top 10 favorite summer tips.

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#1: Be Cool
Dogs can easily suffer from heat exhaustion, so be sure to walk them either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat. Dogs' bodies are closer to the ground than ours, so they heat up quicker.

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#2: Careful of the Feet
Try to walk your dog on grass and avoid hot asphalt. Walking on hot roads or sidewalks can cause your dog’s pads to get burned.

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#3: Avoid Bloat
When you go out with your dog, be sure to take plenty of water with you, but don’t allow your dog to drink it all at once. Smaller, more regularly spaced doses help prevent bloat and other dangerous or uncomfortable conditions.

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#4: Get Wet
Swimming is a great way to quickly cool off your hot dog, but be sure not to let your dog become overtired in the water. Even really good swimmers can tire to the point where it could get dangerous.

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#5: Heat Kills
Hopefully it goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave your dog in an unattended car for even a couple minutes. This is well-known, but somehow we continue to hear horrific stories of pets that died from being locked up in a hot car. Don't do it!

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#6: Floaties!
If you're out on a boat with your dog, be sure the dog is wearing a life preserver.

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#7: Pee Careful
Even the most house-trained dogs often scent-mark new territory, so keep an eye on your dog when checking into a hotel room or vacation house.

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#8: Away from Home
If you take your dog on vacation with you, be aware that the dog could feel heightened anxiety by being left alone in a new place. Try to avoid long spells away until your pet is acclimated.

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#9: Watch the Sun
Some light-colored dogs need to wear sunscreen around their most vulnerable areas. Consult your vet to see if this is something that applies to your dog.

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#10: Doggy Paddle
A really great way to cool your dog during the summer is to provide a kid’s paddling pool. Dogs sweat through their pads, so they can cool down quickly by getting their feet wet.