As the sun graces the land our home down under, it's time to celebrate the summer and festive season with our furry companions. However, amidst the joy and festivities, it's crucial to prioritise the well-being of our dogs. Here are the top tips to ensure your pooch stays happy and safe during the Aussie summer and holiday season.
1. Pool Safety: Lock It Up
The scorching Australian summer calls for refreshing dips in the pool, but safety should always come first. Ensure your pool is properly fenced, and gates are securely locked to prevent your curious canine from taking an unsupervised swim. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.
2. Fireworks Awareness: Calming the Canine Nerves
As New Year's Eve approaches, fireworks displays light up the sky. Many dogs find the loud noises and bright lights distressing. Create a safe space for your dog indoors, with comforting toys and blankets. Consider using calming aids such as soothing music or a pheromone diffuser to help ease anxiety.
Does your pooch already show signs of anxiety? Consider a raw hemp seed oil supplement in their diet to help calm them with an all natural remedy.
3. Beware of Tiny Temptations: Small Decorations and Trinkets
The festive season often brings out the decorations and trinkets, but these can pose a threat to your dog. Keep small ornaments, tinsel, and other decorations out of reach, as ingestion can lead to choking or digestive issues. Opt for pet-friendly decor or place delicate items higher up, away from curious paws and snouts.
4. Quality Control: Say No to Poor Quality and Toxic Toys/Treats
'Tis the season of giving, but not all gifts are created equal. Be mindful of the quality and safety of toys and treats you offer your pup. Avoid toys with small, detachable parts that could be swallowed, and opt for treats made from dog-friendly materials. Check for toxic materials or dyes and keep an eye out for any recalls in the market.
With a wide range of cheap options on the shelves this time of year, you unfortunately get what you paid for. Put some human grade treats or ethical dog toys under the tree this Christmas.
Avoid these common types of store bought treats found in supermarkets, department stores and discount stores
5. Lone Time Blues: Combat Separation Anxiety
With holiday gatherings and summer adventures, your dog might find themselves spending more time alone. Combat separation anxiety by gradually acclimating your pup to being alone, providing engaging toys, and seeking the help of a trusted pet sitter or doggy daycare if needed.Â
Alternatively, take them with you (if it's not too hot and has good shade). There's plenty of pet friendly places emerging so that your dog can join the celebrations too.
6. Beating the Heat: Hydration and Shade
Aussie summers can be scorchers, and our furry friends need extra care to beat the heat. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times, and provide shaded areas for them to cool off. Consider early morning or late evening walks (before 10am and after 6pm) to avoid the peak heat, and never leave your dog in a parked car.
Fun fact: A natural fabric dog bandana can double up as a cooling mechanism. Simply dampen the bandana with some water from the tap or your bottle and wrap it back around your puppers neck to cool them down.
7. Vet Check-Up: 'Tis the Season for a Health Check
Start the new year on top of your puppers health schedule. Before diving into the summer and holiday festivities, schedule a visit to the vet for a thorough health check. Ensure vaccinations are up to date, discuss any concerns, and obtain advice on specific summer and holiday hazards for your dog's breed and health condition.
Have fun!
As you embark on the summer and holiday adventures with your beloved pooch, keep these tips in mind to ensure a season filled with joy, tail wags, and most importantly, safety. Create lasting memories and traditions that include your furry family member in the summer and holiday festivities. Here's to a safe, happy, and paw-sitively delightful season.
Merry Christmas from the DOG SHT family
Krystal, Shane, Pepsi and Louis