As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the great outdoors with our pups. Whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking through the woods, or simply lounging in the backyard, having the right gear can make all the difference. Here are my top picks for summer essentials that keep my dog Bella happy, healthy, and cool all season long!
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If your car is like mine and it doesn't have vents in the back seat this small portable fan is a great addition to the back seat to help the cool air form the A/C up front circulate to the back seat area. I bring this in the house when we aren't using it on the off chance it gets so hot it could melt.
There are many great cooling mats to choose from. I would choose the size and style that works for you and then read some reviews to get an overall idea of if you think it would work. Some times if Bella is not laying on her I will!!! I hate being hot 😂
Having a travel water bottle ensures your pup stays hydrated no matter where you are. This one is especially convenient because you can attach it to a water bottle.
If you plan to spend any time on a boat, paddle board or kayak your pup needs a life jacket, this is especially important if they were to fall overboard. Having the life jacket should help them stay afloat until you can grab them. Having the handles to grab on to is so helpful as well! It is also a great idea to have one if your dog doesn't know how to swim, isn't a strong swimmer or if your pup is elderly. You can also use a life vest when training your dog to swim, having the buoyancy may help give them more confidence while training. Make sure the life jacket you choose fits properly and your dog is able to move properly.
Are fleas and ticks a problem at your place? We don't have ticks but when Bella gets fleas we use Wondercide Flea and Tick Spray for her, her bed and the carpet and it works well. The spray can also be used as mosquito repellent for your dog. This year I also got their flea collar to help keep the fleas away. I also like to use their mosquito repellant for humans on myself.
It's generally a good idea to consider booties for dogs when walking on hot pavement, especially during summer months. Pavement can get very hot and potentially burn your dog's paws resulting in a pricey trip to the vet. Make sure to choose booties made for hot asphalt. Some dogs may take time to get used to wearing them, so it's a good idea to introduce them gradually and ensure they fit comfortably. Make sure to check the listing throughly as some, like the one by Ruffwear showed below, come in packs of two so you would need to get 2 packs one for the front set of paws and one for the back. This is good though because you will have the right size for each and they will fit better than a generic 1 size fits all. Just make sure you mark them in a way that you know which one goes where.
Did you know dog should wear dog specific sunscreen? If you plan to spend a long time outdoors, your dog has short hair or light colored hair, or they have exposed skin areas like the nose, ears, belly, and groin, sunscreen should be applied. Make sure to use one that is dog specific. I personally have not used sunscreen for Bella because we rarely go outside in the sun for long periods of time but if I did I would get this one.
