It’s a real challenge to provide the daily exercise a pet needs when it’s dangerously hot outside. With temperatures in the 90s and no rain in sight, pets are at high risk of dehydration and heat stroke. Additionally, they might develop boredom and depression from staying inside too long. It can be a tough balance to strike, but with our guide to summer exercise for pets, you can keep them happy, fit, and tuckered out.
Reconfigure the Schedule
In a perfect world, pets still get their daily exercise outside. In the middle of summer, however, they should be limited to working out in the early morning and evening hours to reduce the sun’s impact on their health. In addition, whenever pets are outside be sure to:
- Always have cool, fresh water on hand
- Take frequent breaks in the shade
- Avoid hot pavement and rocky surfaces
- Stop working out before your pet gets too hot and tired
When You Can’t Take Them Outdoors
If you cannot safely take your pet outside during the peak summer months, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to keep them active and engaged, and we recommend these fun indoor activities:
- Fetch can be adjusted to meet your pet’s energy levels and your house set-up.
- Food puzzle toys can vary in difficulty and really work the brain out. Also, this can extend meal times and makes them apply their mental and physical energy to solve the puzzle (and get their food).
- Tug of war can be endlessly entertaining for an energetic pup. By conditioning their legs and back, tug of war gets that heart rate up, and gives them a break from monotony. Just end the game before your dog takes it to a rowdy level.
- Hide and seek with either toys or treats can increase your dog’s language skills as you talk to them through the game. You can also hide yourself and teach your dog to come find you to help increase their recall.
- Play dates with your friends or neighbors can really blow off steam fast. Invite their socialized and trained dogs along for a real romp at your place.
- Head to the dog-friendly big box stores like PetSmart, Home Depot, and Lowe’s to get your pup’s steps in. Plus, they’ll get exposure to new people and other dogs there, too.
- Teaching new skills is a fabulous way to keep their mind and body busy. This will also come in handy as you expand their privileges on trails or off-leash parks when the weather cools off.
Indoor Games for Dogs and Cats
It’s no fun to feel trapped inside the house, but it’s also a risk to exercise your dog in the high heat. With the above list of indoor games for dogs and cats, you can rest assured that your pet will continue on their path toward optimal health and wellness, without sacrificing their safety.
Please reach out to us at (916) 984-0990 with any questions or concerns this summer. Our staff is always happy to help your pet Blue Ravine Animal Hospital.
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