Spending a day at the lake with your furry companion can be a great way to beat the heat during summer months.
However, while a typical lake day may seem like a lot of fun, it also poses several risks for your dog’s safety. While it is possible to have a great time, it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure they stay safe and happy.
Here’s our guide on how to avoid hazards and enjoy your lake day stress-free.
Check for Algae Blooms
One of the biggest risks at lakes is harmful algae blooms, also known as blue-green algae. These blooms can be toxic to dogs if ingested and can cause severe internal damage.
The algae can be found on the surface of the water, and it is essential to keep your pet safe by keeping them out of the water and keeping your dog from drinking it. The things we need to keep in mind include cough, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and in some cases, death.
When taking them to the lake, it is always best to research algae blooms in the area and avoid going anywhere near them.
Keep an Eye on Temperature
Dogs are incredibly susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Hot and humid weather paired with overactivity and excitement can lead to heat draw.
Overheating symptoms in dogs can include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. If possible, try to keep them in a shaded area with plenty of water.
Consider bringing along a mobile water bowl or spray bottle to keep your loyal companion comfortable during the hot summer day.
Beware of Wildlife
Lakes tend to attract wildlife, and this may include dangerous animals like snakes and alligators that can harm or even kill your pet.
Always keep an eye out for the presence of wildlife, and if you live in an area where alligators are known to inhabit lakes, we suggest keeping your pup on a tight leash.
By doing this, you are reducing the risk of any dangerous encounters.
Proper Hydration
Dogs can easily become dehydrated, especially during active play on a hot day. To avoid your dog getting dehydrated, always carry along fresh water and take regular breaks to encourage water intake to keep your dog hydrated throughout the day.
As a helpful tip, you can also try freezing water bottles overnight and bringing them to the lake, providing your dog with a refreshing and cool source of hydration during the day.
Good Doggy Etiquette
Lastly, being a responsible pet owner means taking care of not only your furry friend but also those around you.
Following good doggy etiquette includes picking up after your dog, ensuring your dog is under complete control around others, and leashing your dog if needed in the designated areas.
Practicing these simple actions displays being a responsible pet owner, proving you are mindful of your dog’s behavior will make lake days enjoyable for everyone.
Dog Safety at the Lake
Overall, spending a day at the lake can be an enjoyable and exciting way to spend summer days with your pet. However, it’s essential to keep your furry friend’s safety in mind when spending time at the lake.
By following our simple tips, you can prevent dangerous situations and ensure an entertaining and relaxing day while keeping your furry companion completely safe.
Remember always to take fewer risks and more precautions so that we can keep our furry friends safe.
Louie Montan
Meet Louie Montan, the dog-loving, beer-drinking, travel-writing extraordinaire behind Great White Website Services. As a full-time blogger, Louie’s passion for all things canine shines through in every post he creates. But don’t let that fool you, this creative mind is also well-versed in the art of travel and knows how to appreciate a good glass of cold beer with friends. When he’s not busy exploring new destinations or tasting different brews, you can find him jamming out to some tunes or indulging in his love for good food. And of course, no writing session is complete without his best friend, Sage by his side, providing invaluable insights and snuggles as Louie crafts his witty and engaging content from the comfort of his home office.
