With the brutal heat of the Texas summer, it can be hard to keep your pets active without overheating them. Luckily, we have some helpful tips for dog owners that are ready to take on summer adventures with their furry friend.

Pay extra attention to the water bowl.

Depending on if your animals are outside or inside dogs, always keep their water bowl in the shade and refill it with chilled, fresh water regularly. Water can heat up incredibly fast even if its placed in the shade, so it’s crucial that dog owners frequently change their pet’s water. Also, make sure to secure your pet’s water bowl in place. If your animals are outside animals and their water gets spilled while you are gone all day, that could spell big trouble. Give your pet more water than you expect them to drink. If you want to go a step further, get them a kiddie pool that is always filled and in the shade.

Change dog walking routine.

You need to exercise your dog regularly, but when the heat is on, you may have to make some changes to the routine. Walking your pets in the early morning or late evening will ensure the pavement isn’t too hot for their paws. When walking your pets always check their paw pads to see their condition. The hot asphalt can tear them up and cause blisters and bleeding, so ensure you are walking them at the right times or avoiding asphalt or other hot surfaces like concrete.

Get grooming done before summer.

It is important to groom your dog consistently, but even more so in the summer. If you have a dog with long or dense fur, consider shaving them or trimming their coat down so that they don’t have all of their extra layers of fur keeping the Texas heat from escaping. You wouldn’t walk around Lubbock wearing a coat in July, so don’t make your dog wear one.

Whip up summer dog treats.

Everybody loves summer treats, like ice cream or popsicles. Why not make some for your pets? Freeze fruit or peanut butter in ice cubes or makeshift popsicles to cool their insides. They are healthy snacks and your pets will love you for it!

If you have more summer dog-caring tips that you’d like to share, tell us on Facebook so we can add to the list!