The dog days of August have settled in for many in our Tailtown community - the summer heat is blazing, the air is still, and the flies are swarming.
Time to escape to the campsite! Whether it’s your first time camping with your dog or your hundredth, it’s easy to forget a few things when packing for your trip!
Dogs can easily overheat in the summer, so it’s important to pack essentials (like a portable dog bowl) to keep your dog cool and hydrated, especially during that hot summer heat.
The Tailtown team has put together a few ways to keep cool - for yourself and your pup - so that your camping trip is as enjoyable and as safe as possible for both of you!
KEEP YOUR DOG COOL IN THE SHADE! Access to consistent shade is essential for both humans and dogs.
You’ll definitely want to pack a collapsible dog bowl.
A designated dog bed gives them somewhere to sit that isn’t your camp chair!
No more games of musical chairs (and no salty side-eye when they lose!).
Sharing a tent with a wet pup with a wet, soggy collar after lots of fun in the water and hot sunshine can get a little overpowering! Yet, letting your dog go for a little swim to cool off is an essential during those hot days.
Before you load up the car and head off to your favourite campsite, here are some extra dog care tips to keep in mind:
Be extra careful in the car: Even if you need to duck into a store to grab firewood quickly, always leave the AC running if possible. If you can’t keep them cool, it’s best to leave your pup at home.
Check the pavement: Before going on a long walk to enjoy summer, check that the pavement isn’t too hot. For campgrounds with paved roads, make sure to walk in the shade or on the grass to avoid discomfort.
Crank your fans: No AC unit at home? No problem. Instead, try running ceiling fans counterclockwise to push the air down and create a cool breeze inside.
Keep exercise short: When it’s too hot, make sure you only exercise your dog for short periods—and be mindful of peak daily temperatures. If you can, take them out in the evenings or early morning to avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Be mindful of brachycephalic breeds: Some dogs, like Pugs, Chihuahuas, or Shih Tzus, have shortened snouts which can affect their breathing. Dogs sometimes pant to cool down, and this can be problematic for brachycephalic breeds when temperatures are too hot.
Use tracking devices on a hike: If your dog likes to wander off, make sure you have a way to locate them! Apple Airtags and the Tile Pro are great options, and tracking device-friendly collars are easy to find online.
Use a lifejacket for water activities: Even if your dog can swim, make sure they have a life jacket.
Consider flea prevention: When camping, your dog may have a higher risk of contracting fleas or ticks. We suggest chatting with your vet about how you can prevent bringing them home after your trip.
Don’t let the dog days of summer get you down, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy the summer weather with your dog - it’s just a matter of staying cool.
Be sure to pack the right gear, keep an eye on peak temperatures, and always have one eye on your dog to ensure they’re not becoming too hot.
Happy camping!
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