For most of  us, the warm weather means more time spent outdoors with our four-legged  friends. While being outside with your  dog is a great way to spend time together, there are certain dangers the summer  season brings for Fido. To keep your dog  safe, American Kennel Club (AKC®) Canine Partners offers the  following tips to help prevent summer hazards.

• Keep cool. When the heat and humidity are making you uncomfortable, chances are that your dog is suffering too and is becoming overheated. You can prevent overheating by making sure that your dog always has access to cool shade and water. If you see that Fido is slowing down in the heat, you can spray him with a hose to cool him off.

• Dogs get sunburn too. Dogs that have hairless areas or have white fur on their noses or ears can get sunburn. Repeated sunburn on dogs  can predispose them to skin cancer, just like humans. Make sure to put sun block on Fido if he’s going to be outside on a sunny day.

• Paws on pavement. Sidewalks and streets can get very hot, and since your dog doesn’t wear shoes his paws can end up getting burned from the scorching pavement. Keep your dog on the grass in extreme heat to keep his paws intact. Also remember that sand can burn too, so try taking your long beach walks with Fido early in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler.

• Stay away from the barbecue. Keep your dog away from the grill while you are using it, as the open flame is very dangerous. Your dog should be kept away even after you have finished with the grill because it stays hot for a while. Also remember that barbecued food can be greasy and upset his stomach, so as tempted as you may be, don’t give him barbecue scraps.

For more information on safely having fun with your dog, visit the AKC Canine Partners  website at www.moredogfun.com.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc.