Summer Care for Dogs: Keeping Cool, Active, and Healthy.

Summer is usually a wonderful time to get outdoors with your dog, longer days, sunshine, and plenty of adventures to enjoy together.

However, with the current heat wave hitting Whakatāne, it’s especially important to take extra care to keep your dog safe, comfortable, and healthy.

Dogs feel the heat far more than we do, and even a short period in high temperatures can lead to overheating. Here are some key tips to help your pup stay cool, active (safely), and

well-groomed during this hot spell.

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Safe Summer Exercise & Activities

Summer is the perfect season for adventures with your pup, but hot weather means adjusting your routine to keep them safe. Pavement can heat up quickly and burn sensitive paw pads, always test it with your hand: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Instead, aim for grass, shaded trails, or beach walks during the cooler hours of the morning and evening.

Here are some fun, safe ways to enjoy summer together:

• Beach adventures – Many dogs love splashing in the shallows or digging in the sand. Just keep an eye on strong currents and hot sand underfoot.

• Hiking trails – Choose shaded tracks with water access, and always pack plenty of extra water for both you and your dog.

• Backyard fun – Frozen toys, paddling pools ( We love these at C&C) , or a game of hide-and-seek with treats can keep your dog happy and stimulated without risking overheating.

• Indoor enrichment – On really hot days, swap long runs for brain games like scent work or puzzle feeders. These give high-energy pups a great workout without the heat.

By tailoring exercise to the season, you’ll keep your dog active, safe, and smiling all summer long.

Be careful to prioritise cool, shaded time with any activity

During extreme heat, it’s best to limit outdoor activity to the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are lower. Midday walks can be dangerous, especially on hot pavements that can burn paws. A good rule of thumb: if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet.

At home, make sure your dog has access to shade, fresh airflow, and cool resting areas. Fans, tiled floors, and damp towels can make a big difference.

Hydration is essential

With the Whakatāne heat wave, dogs need constant access to fresh, cool water. Check bowls regularly, especially if they’re outside, and consider adding an extra water station. Ice cubes or frozen dog-safe treats can also help keep dogs hydrated and cool.

If your dog is attending our Social Club or boarding with us, don't worry. We actively monitor their water intake, provide regular rest breaks and lots of lovely shady areas.

Watch for signs of overheating

Heat exhaustion can come on quickly. Warning signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, unsteadiness, or glazed eyes. If you notice any of these, move your dog to a cool area immediately and contact your vet.

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With the Whakatāne heat wave showing no signs of slowing down, being mindful of your dog’s needs is more important than ever. A few simple adjustments like choosing cooler times of day, offering plenty of water, providing shaded rest spaces, and keeping activities well-balanced, can make a huge difference to your dog’s comfort and wellbeing.

If you ever need support during the warmer months, whether it’s safe playtime, cooling activities, or professional grooming to help beat the heat, the team at Canine & Co is always here to help.