How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Desert

The desert is a beautiful place to live, you don't have to mow your lawn and you can have your pick of sunshine or shade. The only downside is that it's too hot for us humans, and it can be too hot for your pets too. Dogs and other pets are at an increased risk of dehydration and sunstroke in the desert. Here are some tips on how to keep your dog safe when living in the desert.

Decide Where You Want To Live In The Desert

In deciding where to keep your dog, you may have additional considerations to make when it comes to temperatures. Keeping your pet indoors offers him the added benefit of having his own bed, bowls, and toys as well as being close by in case any medical care is needed. 

Alternatively, if you choose to set up outdoor living for your pet that means you have to set up a dog house outside.

Dogs Living Inside The House

Dogs, like humans, get hot when exposed to the heat of summer. If you want your pet to be comfortable all day - whether you are home or not -the house should be kept at a level that is cooler than normal so as not to cause them any distress.

When temperatures rise during the summer, indoor environments can be an oasis for your pet where they can stay safe and chill out. Even when pet owners aren't at home during work hours, having a house temperature that is comfortable for your dog will ensure they feel happy in their natural habitat.

Dogs Living Outside the House

Provide Cool Shaded Area

Your dogs need shade too, especially between 11 am and 3 pm when they're likely to get overheated. The shaded area you select for your dog should be shaded for the whole time. A shaded area like under the tree is not good because the shade is not continuous there.

Consider purchasing a cooling dog mat for your pet. It prevents your dog from overheating during the hot summer months and keeps him from getting heatstroke as well. The bed is also durable so it will last for years without fail.

Give Clean Water to Drink

When you have to leave your dog outside, it's very important that he or she has somewhere shady to rest because dogs can't cool themselves in the summer. Dogs also need to drink water all of the time, and if they don't have a clean source of it, you'll be held liable if your dog gets injured or ill. 

Your dog should have access to fresh water so that it can stay healthy.

Owners should consider getting creative with ways to keep their pet's water consistently available within reach. Other than filling 'old-fashioned bowls with water, owners should consider investing in types of bowls that are weighted or designed to not easily tip over. Such as those rubber types that are great for carrying or stacking.

You'll also want to try out water bowl options that help keep your pup cool and hydrated no matter how hot it gets outside, after all, you wouldn't want him suffering from dehydration just because he cannot ask for water.

If you're going on a walk, take a portable water bottle with you, your dog will thank you for it. A dog portable water bottle provides easy access to fresh water, it also protects them from drinking contaminated water.

Take Your Dog for Swimming

While out in the summer heat in the desert, you might come across a dog who is lounging up in its pool on hot days. It’s nice to know that there are ways in which we can help our furry friends keep cool while they enjoy their time poolside.

A dog should never be left unattended around the water of any kind even the shallow end of your pool because they will attempt to swim and could drown. If you're concerned that your pet might root up all of your plants, you can create a sandpit for them with damp sand in an area that is safe from straight sunlight.

Walk-In Cooler Times

Taking your dog on walks is a great way to help both you and your pet stay fit. It’s always best to do so in the morning or evening when it is generally cooler, but if you must do it during the day make sure that any sidewalks you walk on don't have hot surfaces that could burn your dog's paws. If the temperature of concrete bothers your feet when you're barefoot, then imagine how much worse it is for your dog.

When it's hot outside, it might be difficult to remember that not all pets are accustomed to extreme temperatures. Dogs especially may struggle with the sun because of their small coats. If you live in a place like Arizona or California, where summer is always scorching hot, make sure your dog has access to shade when you take them out for a walk. Take small, easy walks so they don't overheat.

Never Leave Your Dog in the Car

If you are planning a summer trip with your dog in the car, never leave them unattended in the vehicle. Temperatures inside a car can increase rapidly and brain damage or death is possible on hot days. If you must take your dog on a car ride, it's always best to have someone there to keep an eye on them and their safety, and always leave the air conditioning running.

Conclusion

The desert can be a dangerous place for any dog, but with some preparation, knowledge, and care, your dog can have an amazing time while in the desert. So long as you follow our tips, dogs can easily explore the desert from the safety of your vehicle or with a few simple leashes. We hope that you found this information helpful in making sure that your dog has a safe trip in the desert.