The weather is warming up, bringing on the Dog Days of Summer. Coined by the Romans, the Dog Days of Summer is a term meaning that time of year when the earth’s tilting gives way to the longest sunlight days of the year, revealing Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky. Sirius is part of the constellation Canis Major, known as the Greater Dog, according to the Farmer’s Almanac. (Farmersalmanac.com)
The Dog Days of Summer are typically the hottest days of the year, and a time when dogs tend to find cool, shady places to rest.
Keep your dog–and all of your pets–healthy and cool by following these tips from the American Veterinary Medical Association (Avma.org)
Health Tips
- Your pets–all of them–should have access to cool, clean water at all times
- Keep parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms under control
- Keep your dog up to date on vaccinations
Avoid the Heat
- Never leave pets in your car. The temperature inside rises quickly and can kill them
- Avoid asphalt–it can burn the pads on your dog’s feet. Walk your dog in the early morning or evening hours
- When walking or hiking with your dog, bring water for both you and your dog
Garden and Yard Safety
- Keep yard chemicals out of reach of your pets
- Watch out for plants in your yard that are toxic to your animals
- Avoid using cocoa bean mulch–it has the same toxin that chocolate has
For more information:
Avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/warm-weather-pet-safety
For more information about Sirius and the Dog Days of Summer:
Farmersalmanac.com/why-are-they-called-dog-days-of-summer-21705
