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6 Essential Holiday Tips for Safe Summers and Snug Winters with your Dog

If you're like us your dog is your best friend, always there for you and ready to have fun no matter what the weather! But their waggy tail and glistening coat aren't enough to take on the challenges the seasons can throw up, in fact, they're just as vulnerable to extreme temperatures as we are. Here are our top 6 tips to keep your best buddy safe on holiday come wind, rain or shine!

Dog swimming in the water

1. Water, water, everywhere

Your four-legged friend needs extra help to keep hydrated when the temperatures start soaring. Place lots of cool, clean bowls of water in the shade and take bottled water and a super-handy fabric bowl with you when you're on the move.

2. Protect those paws

When things heat up, sizzling pavements and beaches will scorch your pooches' pads just like your bare feet, so walk at times when it's cooler and check their paws aren't cracking - specialist moisturiser works wonders if they are! In winter, ice-melting products can burn their paws too so avoid de-iced streets and always wash their feet, legs and stomach after your walk to prevent them licking off the dangerously toxic salt. Doggie boots can be a saviour year-round.

3. Play it cool

Our ever-reliable companions can be at real risk when the temperature rises. To keep cool they'll pant and release heat through their pads, so if you see them leaving sweaty footprints or drooling excessively move into the shade and give them some water to cool off. Laying out a wet towel for them to relax on is one of the best ways to bring their temperature down, as dogs cool off from the bottom upwards.

4. Dodge the worst of the weather

Walking your best friend at the right time for them can help to avoid some of the seasons' biggest challenges. Make the most of long summer days and beat the heat, with early morning and evening strolls - they'll definitely appreciate the cooler temperatures! In winter, late morning or early afternoon tend to be slightly warmer, so go for a stroll then to feel less of the chill.

Dog keeping cool in the sun
Dog with head out of the car

5. Cars present dangers year-round

As an animal lover, you'll already know the dangers of leaving your dog unattended in a hot car - where the metal frames can quickly raise temperatures to fatal levels in a matter of minutes. However, even in winter, freezing conditions can be equally dangerous, so it's always best for them to stay at home when you're running errands. Just think of the enthusiastic greeting you'll receive on your return!

6. Every dog is different

Depending on your dog's breed or colour they might need some extra help throughout the year. If they have a dark coat they'll absorb more heat in high temperatures and will become dehydrated faster. Short haired and pink skinned pooches can be at risk of sun burn, so slop on some special doggie sun cream to keep them safe. And if they have a thin coat then a sweater or a warming winter jacket is the perfect way to keep them toasty warm when temperatures plunge.

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