5 Things to Do with Your Dog This Summer

Most people are trying to plan fun activities with their kids, friends, and family during the summer, but your dog wants to be part of the action, too. It’s not always easy to find the right activities when it’s hot and humid outside, but your four-legged friend would love to join you wherever you go. Here a few suggestions for making memories with your dog this summer. Don’t forget to keep the camera handy for some great pictures!

Go to the Beach

You can’t live in Volusia County and not make at least one trip to the beach this summer. You may not have given this a lot of thought, but your dog wants to go, too. Most dogs enjoy playing in the water, and some of them are enthusiastic swimmers who’ll never tire of the ocean. There are lots of things to do at the beach with your dog. For example, you can go for a walk along the water edge and let your canine friend enjoy the unusual scents. Your dog may also like to play fetch in the shallow water, although some prefer not to get wet at all.

Some beaches have restrictions that require you to keep your dog on a leash. In certain areas of the beach, your dog may be allowed to roam free – often in the early mornings. If the beach is crowded, it’s important to keep your dog close by and leashed – especially if he doesn’t come to you when you call him. Additionally, you should make sure that your dog doesn’t overheat. Let your dog rest in the shade during the hottest time of the day and give him plenty of fresh water to drink.

Play Frisbee or Ball

It’s traditional to get active in the summer. We recommend playing Frisbee or ball with your dog to get both of you moving. You can do this in your own backyard in the early morning or late evening, when it’s coolest. If your dog is new to playing catch, it may take him a while to understand that the game can’t continue until he returns the ball or Frisbee to you. 

The great thing about using balls and Frisbees is that you don’t have to run as much as your dog. Therefore, this lends itself well for dog owners of any size, age, or physical ability. Even younger children can keep a dog entertained by throwing the ball, and your dog can relieve some of their penned up energy.

Try Agility Training

If you haven’t heard of agility training, you’re in for a treat. With agility training, you’re teaching your dog to go through an obstacle course as quickly and accurately as possible. The dog has to complete the course off the leash without food or toys as an incentive. Naturally, it takes time to work up to the end result, but it can be a fun past time for both of you to enjoy.

Agility training keeps your dog’s mind sharp and his body active. It also builds a deeper bond between you and your dog. Most of all, it can be a lot of fun for both of you to complete the challenges and get better over time.

Play in the Sprinklers

Summer is a time for having outside fun. When temperatures are soaring, it is difficult for the most active dogs to run around outside. You can encourage your dog to have fun by playing in the sprinklers with him. If you have young children, you already know that sprinkler can be irresistible attractions. After all, you never know exactly where the water will come from next, and you’re staying cool while having fun outside. Most dogs like water, but some are very resistant to getting wet. Don’t force your dog to play in the sprinklers with you. But you never know if he likes it until you give it the old college try.

Go for a Trip

Summer is the perfect time to leave home for a little while. Unlike cats, dogs are more securely attached to their owners and enjoy being with you more than being home alone. While going on a trip can be nerve-wracking, it can also be fun and exciting.

Many hotels accept pets, and you can also try renting a condo from a private party for more leeway with the pet policy. Another option is to take an RV or an old-fashioned tent, because most campgrounds welcome dogs with open arms. If organizing an overnight adventure is too exhausting, you could also just take a day trip to the nearest national park.

7 Signs That Your Dog May Be Sick & When to Call the Vet

Your dog can’t talk and tell you when they’re not feeling good. Nevertheless, most pet owners are aware of their dog’s behavior and can spot the signs when something is wrong. Over the course of your dog’s life, there will probably be several minor ailments and hopefully not too many major ones that require the attention of a trained veterinarian. It’s important to schedule regular checkups and be on the lookout for these signs that your dog is sick.

Bad Breath or Drooling

While some people associate bad breath with dogs, there is a difference between dog breath and bad breath. If your dog’s mouth has an unusual odor to it, that could be a sign that something is wrong. Of course, he may have just caught a rodent or stuck his nose in something smelly, too. If you notice persistent bad breath, it may be a good idea to take your do go to the vet. He may need dental care, or he could be dealing with gastrointestinal, liver, or kidney problems.

Excessive Thirst or Urination

When it’s triple-digit temperatures in the summer, it’s normal that your dog needs extra servings of fresh water. However, if your dog seems thirstier than normal, that’s a possible indicator that something is not quite right. There are a variety of illnesses that could cause your dog to keep coming back for more water, and your vet will quiz you about other symptoms to diagnose the cause, such as a change in appetite or hair loss.

Change in Appetite

Dogs love food. When you serve them dinner, they tend to scarf down their allotted portion within seconds. If your dog doesn’t eat as much food one day or seems a little hungrier another day, that’s not always a cause for concern. A particularly active day may have made him hungry, and a growing dog may need more food. However, if your dog refuses to eat, eats very little, or never stops eating, you should get in touch with your veterinarian. Any change in appetite that also corresponds to a change in weight is a cause for concern in a grown adult dog.

Behavioral Changes

Your dog may have days when he’s grouchier or more tired than usual. If you notice a trend that your dog isn’t as interested in doing things as he once did or is sleeping more than he used to, it’s important to rule out any underlying problems. Your dog may also exhibit attitude changes that could be caused by an illness. Finally, if your dog is unable to do certain things, such as climbing stairs, you want to mention that to your vet, too. 

Coughing or Labored Breathing

While the common cold is typically spread around humans, dogs can also cough. Unfortunately, a cough isn’t always benign and may indicate lung disease, heartworms, or another type of heart disease. If your dog has a hacking cough, he may have kennel cough. Kennel cough is contracted from other dogs and usually resolves within two weeks. Puppies are more vulnerable and could be at risk for pneumonia. Certain breeds are also more likely to have difficulties breathing, especially if they have a flat face.

Skin Problems

Your dog is a popular host for many types of critters. Between fleas and ticks, your dog may scratch often. Some dogs also react to certain allergens found in their food. If your dog has sores, dry or itchy skin, they may be fighting an infection or have an autoimmune disorder. Your vet can help you treat dermatitis and offer suggestions on getting your dog symptom relief.

Red or Cloudy Eyes

Eyes are considered the window of your soul, but they can also tell you a lot about the health of your pet. If you notice that your dog has red eyes, he may have an allergy or an injury to the eye tissues. Cloudy eyes are often a sign of cataracts or nuclear sclerosis. This is a common observance as your pet ages.

When to Call the Vet

Oftentimes, you can talk to your vet about the things you have observed at your next appointment. However, sometimes it’s more urgent and you need to take your pet in right away. If you’re not sure, just give the vet a call, and they’ll let you know. But here are some signs that your dog requires immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing
• Panting, inability to lie down, and abdominal bloating
• Seizures
• Collapse or profound weakness
• Profuse hemorrhage
• Major trauma
• Loss of use of rear legs
• Not drinking or eating for a day