The Dog Days of Summer

By Cami Cacciatore, Paw CBD

We all know this time of year as the dog days of summer. But do you know why?

We can thank the Ancient Romans, who associated the "dog star" Sirius with the height of summer because it was the brightest, most visible star in the constellation Canis Major (Large Dog) during the hottest days of the year.

Even if we no longer look to the skies for our explanation, we can all agree that our dogs are our little superstars, and we love having summer fun with our canine companions.

Plan Your Summer Fun With Fido

Whether you spend your summer seeking adventure or staying close to home, you'll have more fun with your furry friend along for the ride. A little planning can go a long way in making sure your sidekick stays safe so you can both enjoy the dog days of summer!

Dogs Allowed?
From festivals, brewpubs, or vacation rentals to hiking trails or campgrounds, check ahead of time to make sure dogs are allowed. While many places are dog-friendly, it's better to know ahead of time so you can leave your best friend at home if they aren't welcome.

Bring the Necessities
Whether you're taking a road trip, camping in the great outdoors, or just spending the day on an urban adventure, pack the doggie necessities. Besides the obvious, like poop bags and water, consider the destination and be prepared. For longer trips, you'll need food, medications, toys, treats, and anything else to help your dog feel at home. And be sure to pack a first aid kit to handle an emergency until you can get to a veterinarian for care.

Provide Plenty of Water & Shade
During the heat of summer, the most important thing for your dog is shade and fresh water. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for them, and they need to stay out of the sun and stay hydrated, just like you. Never leave dogs tied up in the yard or alone where you can't watch them. Heatstroke can happen quickly and be deadly, so keep them cool at all times. If you're going to be outside all day and can't keep them comfortable, leave them at home.

Avoid Hot Cars & Surfaces
Even with the windows open, never leave your dog in a car in warm weather. Temperatures rise to lethal levels quickly and cause heatstroke and death. Even if you think you'll just be a minute, it's never safe to leave pets in a car alone during the summer. And even outside, be vigilant. Pavement and sand heat quickly and can cause second-degree burns in just 35 seconds. If it's too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for their paws!

Don't Overdo It
Summertime is playtime, and dogs love to play. If you let them, they'll romp and run and chase all day. So it's up to you to make sure they don't overdo it. Limit play and exercise to early morning and late evening when it's cooler outside. If you're out during the heat of the day, take breaks, make sure they drink lots of water and get them in the shade often for cooling timeouts.

Hidden Dangers
Heatstroke, burns, and overexertion aren't the only summertime dangers for pets. Be aware of other threats like poisonous snakes, ear infections, saltwater, pool chemicals, and biting, disease-carrying insects. Don't let dogs eat plants or stray too far off the trail if you're camping or hiking. Pay attention to your surroundings and the possible wildlife you might encounter. Barking at squirrels is one thing, but chasing after something bigger can put your dog (and you!) in danger. No matter how well trained your dog might be, keeping them on a leash and in your sight is the best way to stay safe.

Maintain Daily Wellness With Paw CBD

Whether your summer plans include outdoor adventures or just chilling in the backyard, you want your best friend feeling their best and ready for fun. A daily CBD regimen can help maintain a sense of calm, manage signs of daily stress, support physical comfort, and complement everyday wellness. Paw CBD oil tinctures are easy to add to meals, treats and chews are convenient and portable, and our CBD peanut butter makes for an extra-tasty reward for your good boy or girl.

And if you want your faithful friend to be ready for anything – from extra playtime at the dog park or that morning hike or run on the beach – consider adding Paw CBD Hip+Joint Chews to the mix. It provides an added boost of mobility support with CBD, glucosamine, and omega-3 fatty acids, all in a pup-approved bacon flavor they'll love!

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