Between barbecues, sunbathing, and fireworks, the summer festivities in Luxembourg have delighted locals, cross-border workers and tourists, but what about Fido and Felix? What seems helpful to us such as shaving your dog, can actually be harmful and in a heatwave when forest fire warnings are issued, it is essential to know the precautions to take to ensure your pet has a safe summer.

Sunburn and skin cancer

“Both dogs and cats are at risk of painful sunburn and potential skin cancer, although some may burn more easily than others. Especially the ears and bellies can burn easy, and the noses can dry out and get sore. The white and lighter coloured dogs are among the high-risk group for sunburn, because of their fair skin underneath their fur,” explained Brandt. Cancer is a leading cause of death in dogs, notably skin cancer, and avoiding the sun is an important rule, “should you suspect that your dog [or cat] is suffering from a sunburn, go see the vet. The signs are dry, cracked skin or, if your dog [or cat] keeps scratching tender places, and whimpering at the same time. You may also notice a light fever,” indicated Brandt. While it might seem a good idea to apply human sunscreen to your pet, it is preferable to use a dog/cat-safe sunscreen that are Zinc Oxide and Octisalate-free, which are known to be toxic for animals. “You should be particularly attentive to these areas, and maybe even apply a pet-friendly sunscreen. Just ask the vet or at the pharmacy. Sunscreen could be used on the tip of the ears, nose, belly and in the groin areas, to be on the safe side,” she added.

Weekly brush

A pet’s coat is naturally designed to keep it cool during the summer and warm in the winter, and by shaving their hair, the animal is at higher risk of getting sunburn. “Should you need to shave the dog if it has a hotspot, then please make sure that you ask the vet about sun protection. Caring for your dog’s fur throughout the year is very important. A good brushing at least once a week should do the trick! Of course, some breeds need more, and others less,” Brandt said. She also added that washing the dog too often with dog shampoo may be harmful to their skin, and that “most dogs effectively “auto rinse”, so the dirt comes off by itself if you leave the dog sleeping and drying on a towel or blanket.”

Hot paws

Another important rule is to mind where and when to walk a dog. “If the tarmac is too hot, then the paws will burn! Best is to avoid walks in the middle of the day on hot surfaces, opting for the forest instead, and avoid any paths which are directly exposed to the sun,” Brandt explained, adding, “if the paths are too hot for your bare feet, you can be sure they are also too hot for your dog’s paws. Please don´t walk the dogs on a stone or sandy path, as the stones reflects the sun and can really harm the dog.” Brandt also mentioned that it is important to not run with your dog during the summer unless it is in the early morning or after 10 pm. The same goes for walking and it is recommended to take your dog for a walk before 12 noon and after 4 pm. One can also buy specific dog boots that protect paws from the heat and the snow, or use paw wax.

Parasites, diet and fireworks

It is always important to protect your pet against parasites, especially during summer, as fleas, ticks and mosquitoes can carry tapeworms, heartworms and diseases such as Lyme or Bartonella.

We have always heard that overweight individuals are more susceptible to be heat intolerant, and the same goes for pets. Therefore, you will have to be strong and not fall for their sad puppy eyes when you are enjoying your barbecue. Some foods that are bad for pets are bacon and fatty meat, chocolate, salty foods, garlic, onions, raw meat, fish, eggs and grapes.

Another piece of advice from Brandt is to keep your animal away from festivities and fireworks. “You know how humans and kids love fairgrounds, or the Schueberfouer? Dogs hate it. Best for them is to stay at home, and maybe ask a neighbour or some friends to take care of them while you are enjoying the thrills of the rides. Trust me, your dog will love you for leaving them at home,” she said.

More importantly, remember to always provide fresh and clean water to your pet as well as shade, and as Brandt said, “We love our pets very much, but not everything we do is good for them too! Just be sure that you made the pet-friendly choice, not the human logic choice.”

Before founding 4 Paws Walking, Dorthe Brandt worked for 18 months as a volunteer at the Gaspericher Deierenazyl. She is currently studying to obtain Animal First Aid and Dog Behaviourist Certificates.