Vet-Approved Summer and Holiday Safety Tips for Your Dog

Summer and the festive season are a time of joy, sunshine, and celebration— but it can also pose some dangers for our dogs. Whether it's the sizzling summer heat or the tempting treats around Christmas, a little planning can keep your dog safe, happy, and stress-free.

Here's how to enjoy the season while making it comfortable for your pup, with expert advice from veterinarian Dr Mina Cassimatis.

How to Keep Your Dog Cool and Comfy in the Summer Heat

Australia's summer can be scorching, and our dogs often feel the heat even more than we do. Heat stress is a serious risk, especially for brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs and long-coated dogs like Siberian Huskies.

Tips to beat the heat:

• Keep your dog indoors during extreme heat—think air-con, not sunshine!
• Provide shaded areas and plenty of fresh water if they're outdoors.
• If your dog enjoys a dip, set up a clamshell pool to keep them cool and entertained.

Beach Days: Fun in the Sun with Safety First

What's better than a day at the beach with your dog? With a little preparation, it can be safe and enjoyable for both of you.

 Beach safety essentials:

• Bring a beach umbrella so your dog can rest in the shade.
• Pack fresh water—seawater is tempting but can make them very sick.
• Only let them swim at low tide and avoid strong currents.
• For added safety, consider a life jacket—even for seasoned swimmers.

Protect Your Dog's Paws from Summer Burns

Ever walked barefoot on hot pavement? Now imagine doing that without shoes all day long. Your dog's paws are just as sensitive.

 How to prevent paw burns:

• Walk early in the morning or late in the evening when surfaces are cooler.
• Check outdoor tiles at home—they can heat up quickly and burn paw pads.
• As we spend more time outdoors or by the pool, excited dogs may run laps on hot tiles, risking burns or paw injuries. Keep an eye on surface temperatures to protect them.

Fresh Cuts: Grooming Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool

Grooming is about more than looking good—it's essential for health, especially in summer.

Why grooming matters:

• Tangle-free fur prevents mats that can trap moisture and lead to skin infections, like hot spots.
• Regular trims reduce the risk of grass seeds embedding in the skin.
• Clean, short coats help your dog stay cool and comfortable.

Why Dogs and BBQ Leftovers Don't Mix

BBQs are an Aussie summer staple, but they can be dangerous for curious pups.

 BBQ safety tips:

• Dispose of scraps, skewers, and foil in a dog-proof bin.
• Keep the grill area off-limits to avoid accidents.

"Dogs are easily tempted by the smells and can end up rummaging through the trash, sometimes eating skewers or foil. These items can be life-threatening if swallowed and usually require surgery to remove." - Dr Mina Cassimatis

'Tis the Season for Parasites

The warmer months bring out fleas, ticks, and other parasites, some of which can be life-threatening.

 Stay on top of treatments:

• Use year-round parasite prevention and check your dog regularly.
• Be especially vigilant about paralysis ticks, which are more common in summer.

Why Your Dog Should Skip the Pudding This Christmas

It's the season of indulgence, but not all festive treats are safe for dogs. Chocolate, raisins, and fatty foods can cause severe health issues, including pancreatitis and poisoning.

Dr Mina Cassimatis warns, "The Christmas period is one of the busiest times of the year for veterinarians! One of the most common emergencies we see is dogs who've gotten into chocolates hidden under the Christmas tree. A little planning can save you an emergency vet trip and keep your dog happy during the festivities."

What to do instead:

• Treat your pup to a dog-friendly snack. Feed them their own Turkey dinner or spoil them with suitable treats - remember moderation is key though!

How to Pick Safe Toys for Your Pup

Christmas-themed toys are adorable, but they're not all created equal.

 Toy safety tips:

• Choose durable toys that match your dog's play style.
• If your dog loves to chew, avoid toys with stuffing or small parts that could be swallowed and opt for more durable toys.
• Supervise playtime to ensure your pup stays safe.