3 Summer Hazards For Dogs

From heatwaves to days at the park, summer brings plenty of adventure — and a few serious risks for dogs that many owners overlook. Whether you're heading out for a walk, a swim, or just lounging in the sun, here are 3 summer dangers every dog owner should be aware of — and exactly how to avoid them.

1. Heatstroke: The Fastest-Rising Summer Risk

Heatstroke in dogs can develop frighteningly quickly — sometimes in less than 15 minutes. Dogs can't sweat like humans, so they rely on panting to regulate their body temperature. When it’s hot and humid, this natural system becomes much less effective.

• When it happens: Walks during midday, time in cars or hot rooms, playing too hard in the sun, or lack of shade.
• Key signs: Rapid or heavy panting, excessive drooling, red or pale gums, uncoordinated movement, vomiting, or collapse.
• Immediate action: Move your dog to a cool area, wet them with room-temp water (never icy), and call a vet immediately.

Prevention is everything. Walk early or late, bring water, and know that certain breeds — like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and other flat-faced pups — are especially high risk.

2. Blue-Green Algae: Toxic, Fast-Acting, and Often Unnoticed

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms in stagnant lakes, ponds, and canals — especially in warm, sunny weather. It can look like green or brown scum, a film on the water’s surface, or even clumps of grass floating near the edges.

• Why it's dangerous: It produces toxins that can cause liver failure, seizures, and even death within hours of ingestion.
• Common exposure: Drinking from, swimming in, or licking contaminated fur after water play.
• Symptoms: Weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulties, seizures, or collapse.

Always check for water safety signs at lakes and rivers. If the water looks cloudy, has surface film, or smells strange — avoid it entirely. If your dog is exposed, rinse them off immediately and seek emergency vet care.

3. Public Water Bowls: Convenient but Contaminated

That shared water bowl outside a shop or pub might look refreshing, but it can host bacteria, viruses, and parasites — especially when it’s been sitting in the heat.

• Health risks: Leptospirosis, Giardia, parvovirus, or other waterborne pathogens.
• Added risk: Stale water in the sun breeds bacteria fast. And you never know what kind of dog drank before yours.
• Better option: Always bring a portable bowl and your own water from home. It's more hygienic and keeps your dog’s gut and immune system better protected.

Final Thought

You don’t need to avoid summer fun — just be smart about it. Know the risks, plan ahead, and pack well. With the right care, your dog can enjoy the sunshine safely by your side.

P.S. NutriPaw supports your dog’s immunity, skin health, and seasonal resilience — ideal for active pups facing warm-weather challenges.