At Oonalfie, we believe that life with our dogs is made up of thousands of small moments. Each one, uniquely special and rewarding in its own way.
An early morning walk. The sound of clicking claws as they follow you into the kitchen. Their funny dreams, whilst they snooze in a shady spot beneath a tree, after an afternoon, exploring somewhere new.
Summer has a way of slowing us down just enough to notice those moments.
The longer days invite us outside, holidays create new adventures, and warm evenings offer more time together. Yet alongside everything we love about the season comes a responsibility to think differently about our dogs' comfort and wellbeing.
Unlike us, dogs can't simply remove a layer, reach for a cold drink whenever they like or tell us when the heat is too much. They rely on us to recognise the signs, adjust our routines and make decisions that keep them safe.
That's exactly why we've created this guide.
Rather than a quick list of tips, we've brought together everything we believe every dog owner should know about summer. Whether you're welcoming your first puppy, sharing life with a senior companion or planning a family holiday with your four-legged friend, this guide is designed to answer not only the questions you already have, but many you may not have thought to ask.
WHAT WE'LL COVER
- What should you do if you suspect heatstroke?
- Is the pavement too hot for sensitive paws?
- How much water does a dog really need in summer?
- Are beaches, rivers and lakes always safe?
- Which summer plants, insects and garden hazards should you be aware of?
- How can you travel comfortably with your dog?
- What are the best ways to create a cool, calming home during warmer weather?
HOW HOT IS TOO HOT TO WALK YOUR DOG?
There is no single temperature that is too hot for every dog. Factors such as humidity, breed, age, fitness, coat type, the walking surface and the intensity of exercise all affect how well a dog can cope with warm weather. On hot days, choosing cooler times to walk and watching your dog's behaviour are more reliable than relying on temperature alone.
Why Temperature Alone Doesn't Tell the Whole Story
Humidity, direct sunlight, wind, cloud cover, pavement temperature and intensity of exercise all contribute to the answer.
Which Dogs Are Most At Risk?
Higher Risk Why
Puppies Less able to regulate body temperature
Senior dogs Reduced tolerance to heat
Flat-faced breeds More difficult to cool themselves
Overweight dogs Greater risk of overheating
Thick-coated breeds Retain more heat
Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions Heat places additional strain on the body
Signs It's Time to Turn AroundIf your dog begins slowing down, seeking shade, panting heavily or loses interest in continuing the walk, it's time to head home—even if you've only been out for ten minutes. |
LAURA'S THOUGHTS...
“Over the years of owning various dogs I have come to realise that it doesn’t really matter what you’d like to do, the weather is going to make its own plans, so we have to adapt to it. On very hot days I do a short walk, very early and then, if it’s needed, I input with a bit of brain work throughout the day. I encourage and reward calm slow walking, not wild running around ensuring that their (my dog’s) body’s core temperature stays stable.
Generally my dogs show me what they need and I adjust their routine accordingly. Observation really is power.”
THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION
Most people think the first sign of overheating is heavy panting.
In reality, by the time a dog is panting heavily, they've already been trying to cool themselves for some time. Panting is normal in warm weather. However, what owners need to notice is when it becomes excessive or is accompanied by other changes in behaviour.
SIGNS YOUR DOG NEEDS YOU TO ACT IN THE HEAT
STAGE 1
"Something doesn't feel quite right"
These are the subtle signs many owners may miss:
- Your dog starts slowing down or wants to stop walking.
- They begin seeking shade at every opportunity.
- They're panting more than usual for the level of exercise.
- They seem less interested in playing or exploring.
- They want to lie down sooner than normal.
These aren't necessarily signs of heatstroke, but they are your dog's way of saying they're struggling with the heat.
At this point, the kindest thing you can do is end the walk, find shade and offer fresh water.
STAGE 2
Your dog is becoming overheated
As their body works harder to cool itself, you may notice:
- Heavy or noisy panting.
- Excessive drooling, often thicker or stickier than normal.
- Bright red gums or tongue.
- A noticeably faster heartbeat.
- Weakness or lethargy.
- Confusion or seeming "not quite themselves."
These are warning signs that shouldn't be ignored.
THE RSPCA'S ADVICE“COOL FIRST TRANSPORT SECOND” Start cooling your dog immediately before heading to the vet, as reducing their body temperature quickly gives them the best chance of recovery. |
HOW TO SAFELY COOL AN OVERHEATED DOG
If you think your dog is becoming overheated, act immediately. Early action can make a significant difference and may prevent heat exhaustion from developing into life-threatening heatstroke.
The aim is to lower your dog's body temperature gradually while arranging prompt veterinary care if they're showing signs of heatstroke.
STEP 1 - MOVE YOUR DOG SOMEWHERE COOL
Take them out of direct sunlight and into a shaded, well-ventilated area or, ideally, an air-conditioned room or vehicle.
Help them stay as calm as possible, as excitement and unnecessary movement can increase body temperature further.
STEP 2 - START COOLING WITH WATER
Current veterinary guidance recommends using cool to cold water over your dog's body.
You can:
- Gently pour cool or cold tap water over them.
- Use a hose on a gentle setting.
- Sponge water over their coat if that's all you have available.
Pay particular attention to areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, such as the belly, chest, neck and inner thighs.
AVOID USING ICE BATHS
Extremely cold temperatures can cause blood vessels near the skin to constrict, reducing heat loss and making it harder for your dog's body to cool effectively.
STEP 3 - ENCOURAGE AIRFLOW
Cooling works even better when combined with moving air.
If possible:
- Sit your dog in front of a fan.
- Open car windows once you're safely parked.
- Increase ventilation around them.
The moving air helps the water evaporate, carrying heat away from the body more efficiently.
STEP 4 - OFFER FRESH DRINKING WATER
Allow your dog to drink small amounts if they want to, but don't force them.
It's perfectly normal if they aren't interested immediately.
STEP 5 - CONTACT YOUR VET
If you suspect heatstroke, even if your dog seems to improve after cooling, contact your veterinary practice immediately.
Heatstroke can continue to affect the body's organs even after your dog's temperature begins to fall, so veterinary assessment is always recommended.
HEAT: SORTING THE FACTS AND MYTHS
MYTH |
FACT |
| "Only walk dogs if its under 20c" |
There's no single safe temperature. Humidity, breed, age, fitness, the walking surface and the intensity of exercise all play a part. |
| "Ice baths are the quickest way to cool dogs" |
Ice baths are not recommended. Cool to cold tap water and good airflow is the preferred first aid approach. |
| Panting always means heatstroke |
Panting is a normal way for dogs to regulate body temperature. It's excessive panting, especially alongside other signs like lethargy, drooling or confusion, that should raise concern. |
| "If my dog seems better after cooling, they don't need the vet" |
Dogs showing signs of heatstroke should still be assessed. by a vet, as internal complications can develop even after they appear to recover. |
OONALFIE TIP
Remember: You Know Your Dog Best.
One of the most important signs of overheating isn't something you'll find on a checklist—it's a change in your dog's normal behaviour.
Perhaps your energetic spaniel suddenly wants to lie down after ten minutes. Maybe your Labrador, who usually charges towards every tennis ball, would rather sit in the shade. Or your normally curious puppy seems unusually quiet.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
Those small changes are often your dog's earliest way of telling you they're finding the heat difficult. If something doesn't feel right, it's always better to cut a walk short than to risk your dog's health.
IS THE PAVEMENT TOO HOT FOR MY DOG?
It's one of the most common questions dog owners ask during summer, and understandably so. After all, if the air temperature only feels pleasantly warm, surely the pavement can't be that hot? Unfortunately, it can.
Hard surfaces such as tarmac, concrete, paving slabs and artificial grass absorb the sun's heat throughout the day and can
become significantly hotter than the surrounding air. Even on a mild summer's afternoon, the ground beneath your dog's paws may be hot enough to cause painful burns.
Rather than relying on the weather forecast or your gut instinct alone, veterinarians recommend checking the surface before every walk.
THE HAND TEST
You've probably heard of the five-second rule, the seven-second rule or even the ten-second rule. While the advice varies slightly, the principle remains the same.
Place the back of your hand flat against the pavement. If it's too hot for you to comfortably leave it there, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Think of it less as counting seconds and more as asking yourself a simple question:
"Would I be happy walking barefoot on this surface?"
If the answer is no, it's time to change your plans.
Remember, It's Not Just Pavement
Hot surfaces aren't limited to roads and pavements.
Be especially cautious around:
- Artificial grass
- Beach sand
- Stone patios
- Metal drains and manhole covers
- Wooden decking left in direct sunlight
Many of these surfaces can become surprisingly hot, even when the air feels comfortable.
OUR ADVICEChoose Cooler Routes Instead Whenever possible during warmer weather, opt for:
Not only are these surfaces kinder on sensitive paws, but they're often cooler overall, reducing your dog's risk of overheating. |
KEY TAKE AWAY POINTS
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If you're ever unsure, don't feel guilty about shortening a walk or swapping it for some gentle enrichment at home. Most dogs are more inclined to settle quietly in the heat anyway, which means your day won’t be upended by a fully energised dog pestering you for attention. No dog ever suffered because they missed one walk, but every summer veterinary practices see dogs with burnt paw pads and heat-related illness that could have been prevented with a little extra caution. |
HOW MUCH WATER DOES YOUR DOG REALLY NEED IN SUMMER?
Every dog owner knows that giving your dog access to fresh drinking water is a basic need, but how does this need change in warmer weather and how much water does a dog actually need?
The honest answer is that there's no single amount that's right for every dog. While veterinarians have general guidelines, there isn't one exact amount that's right for every dog. A young Border Collie racing around a woodland trail on a warm morning will naturally need far more water than an older dog enjoying a quiet afternoon in the shade.
Your dog's size, age, activity level, diet and even the humidity all affect how much they'll need to drink.
Rather than focusing on a specific amount, it's more helpful to understand your dog's normal drinking habits and recognise when they change.
MAKE WATER EASY TO FIND
Dogs are far more likely to drink little and often when water is readily available.
During the summer months, consider placing bowls in several locations around your home and garden. Outdoor bowls are always a hit, if you have room in your garden or outdoor space.
If you're heading out, always pack fresh water and a portable bowl—even for shorter walks.
ENCOURAGE DON'T FORCE
Offer water regularly during walks and adventures, but don't worry if they only take a few sips at a time. Small, frequent drinks are often more comfortable than trying to drink a large amount all at once, especially if your dog is particularly active, when out.
If your dog doesn't want to drink immediately after exercise, allow them a few moments to settle before offering water again.
HOW CAN I TELL IF MY DOG IS DEHYDRATED?
Mild dehydration isn't always obvious, which is why it's worth knowing what to look for.
Signs may include:
- Dry or sticky gums.
- Sunken-looking eyes.
- Tiredness or unusual lethargy.
- Thick, sticky saliva.
- Loss of appetite.
If you notice these signs, encourage your dog to drink, move them somewhere cool and contact your vet if you're concerned or if they seem unwell. You could also try feeding them low salt cooled chicken or fish broth, or adding some form of moisture to their dry food.
CAN DOGS DRINK TOO MUCH WATER?
It's unusual, but yes.
After swimming or vigorous exercise, some dogs may gulp down large amounts of water very quickly.
Where possible, encourage your dog to take smaller drinks with short breaks in between rather than allowing them to empty an entire bowl in one go.
Water intoxication (hyponatremia) is rare, but it can occur if dogs swallow excessive amounts of water, particularly while repeatedly retrieving toys from lakes or paddling pools. It occurs when a dog drinks too much water at once, causing a dilution of sodium in their blood. This can make them extremely unwell and in need of emergency veterinary care.
KEEPING DOGS HYDRATED CHECKLIST
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Keeping your dog hydrated is easy with this short checklist: ✔ Refresh water bowls regularly throughout the day. ✔ Take fresh water on every walk. ✔ Offer drinks before and after travelling. ✔ On long journeys in hot weather consider using a non-spill bowl in the car ✔ Keep bowls out of direct sunlight. ✔ Wash bowls daily to keep the water clean and appealing. |
💡 DID YOU KNOW?
Dogs lose water in ways we don't always notice.
While dogs don't sweat over most of their bodies as humans do, they do lose moisture through:
- panting,
- the sweat glands in their paw pads,
- breathing more rapidly in warm weather.
These are science based fact to remember, and it's backed by canine physiology not folklore.
ARE BEACHES RIVERS AND LAKES ALWAYS SAFE FOR DOGS?
For some of our dogs, there's nothing quite as exciting as the sight of water. Whether it's racing through the waves at the beach, splashing in a woodland stream or taking a refreshing dip in a lake, swimming can be a wonderful way for dogs to cool down and enjoy the warmer months.
But while water can help keep your dog comfortable in hot weather, it's important to remember that not every stretch of water is as safe as it looks. Learning what to look out for before your dog jumps in can help you enjoy your adventures with confidence.
THE BEACH
A trip to the coast is a favourite for many dog owners, but beaches come with a few potential hazards.
Salt water- isn't harmful if your dog accidentally swallows a small amount while swimming, but drinking large quantities can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea and dehydration. Always take fresh drinking water with you and encourage your dog to drink that instead of seawater.
The sand itself can also become surprisingly hot during the middle of the day, so remember to check it just as you would a pavement.
After a swim, rinse your dog's coat with fresh water if possible. This helps remove salt, sand and any irritants that may become trapped in their coat or between their paw pads.
It's also worth checking local beach restrictions before you travel, as some UK beaches have seasonal dog access rules during the summer months.
RIVERS AND STREAMS
Woodland streams often feel like the perfect place for dogs to cool down and paddle, but natural waterways deserve a little extra caution.
Fast-moving currents can be much stronger than they appear, particularly after heavy rain. Deep pools, slippery rocks and steep riverbanks can also make it difficult for dogs to get out once they've entered the water.
Even confident swimmers can become tired surprisingly quickly in tricky conditions.
If you're exploring somewhere unfamiliar, take a few moments to assess the area before allowing your dog into the water.
Keep an extra eye out for puppies when introducing them to open water for the first time. Ideally they would be able to walk in, off a sandy bank and gradually change their walk to a paddle. If you can be in with them, even better.
Never force a dog into water, as this can lead to lifelong fear. Instead gently encourage and reward, as you would with any new experience. Look for a gentle entry and exit point, avoid strong currents and keep your dog within sight at all times.
LAKES AND PONDS
Still water can seem calm and inviting, but it sometimes carries risks that aren't immediately visible.
One of the most serious is blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). Despite its name, it isn't actually algae but a type of bacteria that can produce toxins harmful to both people and animals.
Water affected by blue-green algae may look like green paint has been spilled across the surface, or it may appear as a thick green, blue-green or brown scum. However, it isn't always easy to spot with the naked eye.
If you see warning signs around a lake or notice suspicious-looking water, keep your dog well away. Even drinking a small amount or licking contaminated water from their coat can make them seriously ill.
PRE-SWIM CHECK
Wherever you're exploring, it's worth taking a quick look around before unclipping the lead.
Ask yourself:
- Is there an easy way for my dog to get back out?
- Are there signs warning about water quality?
- Could there be boats, anglers or wildlife nearby?
- Is the bank stable, or could it be slippery underfoot?
- Does my dog look confident, or are they feeling uncertain?
Taking just a minute to assess the environment can prevent accidents and make the experience far more enjoyable for everyone.
POST SWIM
Once you're back on dry land:
- Offer fresh drinking water.
- Rinse your dog's coat if they've been swimming in the sea or muddy water.
- Dry their ears gently, particularly if they're prone to ear infections.
- Check between their paw pads for stones, shells, grass seeds or other debris.
- Give them time to rest before setting off on another long walk.
Swimming is exercise, and uses different muscle groups to normal daily activity, many dogs will be far more tired than they first appear. Swimming can also aid relaxation and give older dogs better joint support that walking.
LAURA'S TOP TIPS
"Every Dog Is Different. Not all dogs enjoy swimming and that's perfectly okay!
Some breeds are natural water lovers, while others prefer to keep all four paws firmly on dry land. Never force your dog into the water or assume that because they've swum before they'll feel confident every time.
Sometimes paddling in the shallows, and exploring the shoreline is enough.”
WHICH PLANTS INSECTS AND GARDEN HAZARDS SHOULD YOU BE AWARE OF?
Our gardens become an extension of our homes during the summer. Whether you're enjoying a barbecue with friends, tending to the flowerbeds or simply relaxing in the sunshine together, they offer wonderful places for our dogs to explore.
However, gardens can also hide hazards that we may not be aware of. Knowing what to look out for allows you to make a few simple changes, so your dog can explore safely all summer long.
SUMMER PLANTS TO BE AWARE OF
Many popular UK garden plants are perfectly safe, but a few can cause problems if chewed or eaten.
Some of the more common plants to be aware of include:
- Foxgloves – Beautiful cottage garden favourites, but every part of the plant is highly toxic if ingested.
- Lilies – While particularly dangerous for cats, some varieties can also cause stomach upset in dogs.
- Hydrangeas – Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and lethargy if eaten.
- Rhododendrons and Azaleas – Even small amounts can make dogs seriously unwell.
- Yew – One of the UK's most poisonous garden trees. The leaves, seeds and clippings are all extremely toxic.
- Laburnum – Often seen in parks and gardens during late spring and early summer. It is easy to recognise by its long cascades of bright yellow flowers that hang from the branches in late spring and early summer. Every part of the tree is poisonous, particularly the seed pods.
Fortunately, most dogs have little interest in eating ornamental plants and some even have a natural instinct to avoid poisonous plants. Curious puppies are far more likely to investigate by chewing. Like young children, they explore the world with their mouths, making them much more likely to nibble leaves, flowers and seed pods.
If you're introducing new plants to your garden, it's always worth checking that they're suitable for households with pets and keep an eye on your dog around newly planted plants for the first few weeks.
GRASS SEEDS - SMALL BUT SURPRISINGLY DANGEROUS
One of the most common summer veterinary problems isn't a poisonous plant at all.
Grass seeds are designed to travel in one direction, and unfortunately that means they can work their way into a dog's skin, ears, eyes, nose and even between their toes.
After every walk through long grass or dry meadows, take a minute to check:
- Between each paw pad.
- Inside and around the ears.
- Around the eyes.
- Under the armpits.
- Around the groin.
If your dog suddenly starts shaking their head, squinting, licking one paw excessively or develops a swelling after a walk, contact your vet promptly. Grass seeds rarely work their way back out on their own.
BEES WASPS AND OTHER SUMMER VISITORS
Most dogs are fascinated by buzzing insects, especially inquisitive puppies. It's not uncommon for dogs to snap at flies, bees or wasps as they buzz past, which unfortunately can result in a sting. While a sting on the paw is usually just painful, stings inside the mouth, on the tongue or around the throat are much more serious because swelling can quickly affect breathing. Contact your vet immediately if:
- Your dog is struggling to breathe.
- They're stung inside the mouth or throat.
- Their face begins swelling rapidly.
- They appear weak or collapse.
TICKS
Summer is peak season for ticks, particularly after walks through long grass, woodland or heathland. Ticks look initially like small 6 legged spiders but have a sack on their backs which quickly fills once they have latched onto their host body. Ticks can carry diseases and should be removed as soon as possible using a proper tick removal tool.
- After countryside walks, check carefully around:
- The ears.
- The neck.
- Under the collar or harness.
- Between the toes.
- Around the groin and armpits.
- If you're unsure how to remove a tick safely, your veterinary practice will be happy to show you. You can also buy small tick removers, which once you have been shown by your vet are easy for you to use and keep in your dog walking bag or pocket.
GARDEN PRODUCTS
Many everyday gardening products should be stored well out of reach, ideally in a locked outbuilding.
Take extra care with:
- Slug pellets
- Weed killers
- Fertilisers
- Compost
- Cocoa mulch
- Rodent bait
Always follow the manufacturer's guidance before allowing pets back onto treated lawns or flowerbeds. Some of the above have an extremely appealing smell to dogs. If ingested, contact your vet immediately.
AT A GLANCE SUMMER GARDEN SAFETY CHECKLIST
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Before summer starts, ask yourself:
Checking for your surroundings for a minute, can prevent many of the most common summer accidents in dogs. Ultimately your garden is one of the most wonderful resources your dog has to adventure in. It's important to remember that most dogs spend hours of their lives happily and safely enjoying their gardens, whether for exploration, snoozing or playing, without any mishap. |
💡 DID YOU KNOW?
Grass seeds don't just get caught in fur, they can actually travel through the body.
Because of their sharp, one-way shape, grass seeds can continue moving through tissue once they've entered the skin. That's why veterinary treatment is often needed to remove them, and why it's so important to investigate persistent limping, excessive licking or head shaking after walks through long grass.
🐾 OONALFIE TIP
Why not make a two-minute "post-adventure check" part of your everyday routine? Before heading indoors, run your hands over your dog's coat, check between their paws, have a quick look inside their ears and brush away any seeds or debris. Most dogs soon come to enjoy these little routines. They're one of the easiest ways to spot small problems before they become bigger ones and give you and your dog a special moment of bonding.
HOW CAN YOU TRAVEL COMFORTABLY WITH YOUR DOG IN SUMMER?
Summer adventures often begin with a journey. Whether you're heading to the coast, exploring the countryside or visiting friends and family, thinking through your plan before you set off can make travelling far more comfortable for your dog and help you both arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the day.
CHOOSE THE COOLEST TIME TO TRAVEL
Whenever possible, plan longer car journeys for the early morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are lower and roads are often quieter, reducing your risk of getting caught in unnecessary traffic.
Travelling during the hottest part of the day places extra strain on your dog, particularly if they're young, elderly, brachycephalic (flat-faced) or simply not used to long journeys.
KEEP FRESH WATER IN EASY REACH
Always travel with plenty of fresh drinking water.
A no-spill travel water bowl is a brilliant addition to your summer kit, allowing your dog to drink safely during rest stops without soaking the car.
Offer water regularly throughout your journey, particularly after exercise or if your dog has been panting.
LET THE CAR COOL BEFORE YOU LET YOUR DOG IN
Even on a pleasantly warm day, a parked car can heat up surprisingly quickly.
Before inviting your dog inside, allow the air conditioning to cool the cabin for a few minutes so they're stepping into a comfortable environment rather than a hot vehicle.
If your dog travels in the boot, remember that many car boots don't benefit from the same level of air conditioning as the passenger cabin. Check your vehicle's ventilation and never assume the boot will stay cool simply because the front of the car feels comfortable. On very hot days you may need to change your dog's travelling position in the car to keep them out of direct sunlight. You could also consider using solar blinds or see through reflective screens to help keep the car interior cooler.
TAKE REGULAR BREAKS
On longer journeys, schedule regular stops in shaded locations where your dog can stretch their legs, have a drink and enjoy a bit of fresh air before continuing.
Puppies, senior dogs and dogs with existing health conditions may benefit from more frequent breaks, especially during warm weather.
A comfort break doesn't need to be a long walk. Sometimes five or ten minutes in the shade is all your dog needs before continuing the journey.
TRAVEL ON A COMFORTABLE STOMACH
If your dog is prone to travel sickness, try to avoid feeding a full meal for around two hours before you set off. This simple adjustment can help reduce nausea and make the journey more comfortable.
If your dog regularly suffers from travel sickness, speak to your vet, as there are treatments that may help.
NEVER LEAVE A DOG IN A PARKED CAR
Even with the windows slightly open or parked in the shade, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes. If your plans mean you'll need to leave your dog in the car, it's kinder and far safer to leave them at home where they can stay cool and comfortable.
ARRIVE CALM NOT RUSHED
One of the easiest ways to make travelling more enjoyable is simply to allow yourself a little extra time.
Rushing to pack the car, hurrying your dog into the boot and worrying about traffic creates unnecessary stress for everyone. Leaving just fifteen minutes earlier often means you can stop for an extra drink of water, enjoy a quiet comfort break or simply begin your adventure at a gentler pace. Don’t forget that the journey is part of the adventure too!
AT A GLANCE SUMMER TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Before setting off, remember to pack:
Before every journey, ask yourself:
This should ensure your trip begins happily and safely from the moment you set off until the minute you arrive home. |
💡DID YOU KNOW?
Dogs don't have to be running around to become dangerously hot. Simply sitting in a poorly ventilated car on a warm day can cause their body temperature to rise rapidly. That's because dogs rely mainly on panting to lose heat, and when the air around them is already hot, that cooling system becomes much less effective.
🐾 OONALFIE TIP
One of the easiest ways to help your dog settle during a journey is to make the car feel familiar. A favourite blanket, a well-loved toy or your dog's usual settle mat can provide reassurance in new environments. It's a small thing, but for many dogs, familiar scents help turn an unfamiliar journey into ‘nothing to worry’ about rather than building anxiety.
LAURA'S FINAL THOUGHTS
"For puppies and younger dogs, a suitable long-lasting chew can be a wonderful distraction on longer journeys. We've certainly found it keeps busy mouths occupied and may even save your car interior from becoming their next teething project."
SEVEN THINGS TO REMEMBER THIS SUMMER
| Summer should be a season of relaxation and adventures, not worry. We hope this guide has given you the confidence to enjoy the warmer months together, knowing what to look for, how to prepare and when to slow down.
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OUR COMMITMENT TO ACCURACY
This guide has been written using current guidance from leading UK animal welfare and veterinary organisations.
We review and update our Journal articles regularly to reflect the latest evidence and recommendations, because advice evolves—and so should the information we share.