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One of my favorite things about living in Germany is how dog-friendly everything is. I take my Italian Greyhound just about everywhere I go. And now that the weather’s warm, I’m planning even more outdoor adventures together. Here are a few things to keep in mind for your four-legged friend during the warmer months.
Heat
Don’t let Fido dehydrate in the summer sun. Most restaurants are more than willing to provide you with a bowl and tap water. Simply ask, “Haben Sie Wasser für meinen Hund, bitte?”
Bees
As I write, my small dog it sitting on my lap with her mouth swollen like a chipmunk after eating a bee. I wish I could say she learned a lesson from all of this. Seeing as this is the second time we’ve been through this, I doubt it.
One sting is generally not dangerous. But if you notice extreme swelling or trouble breathing, head to the vet as soon as possible. If your dog has had multiple stings or had a bee in its mouth, call your vet. Bee stings in the mouth can be life-threatening. It can cause swelling that can make it hard for the dog to breathe.
Ticks
We love to take hikes in the many wooded trails in the area. Ticks also love grassy trails, so it’s important to check your dog for them every day. You can buy inexpensive tick removal tools at the vet or online.
Preparing for Holiday fireworks
Independence day celebrations are around the corner and while most of us look forward to the holiday, your four-legged family member may have a hard time coping with the fireworks you love so much. Here are a few ideas to help relieve stress:
Make your home escape-proof: Some dogs run when they get scared. Close all doors and windows, close all curtains or rolladens and turn on the lights. Turning on the TV for some background sounds may also help disguise the noise.
Go for a walk: Tire your dog out before it gets dark. Go for a long walk, or even a swim, if you have a lake nearby. Make sure your dog is exhausted by the end of the evening to help settle them better.
Create a hiding space: If your dog likes to hide away, create a doggy den under a safe space with blankets, their bed and favorite cuddly toy.
Once the fireworks start, be there for your dog to comfort them, don’t leave them alone, if they are scared. If they hide away, let them, your pooch will come out again, once it feels safe.
Author’s Profile: Kelly is a DOD wife, devoted dog-mom, a mediocre cook, a whiskey aficionado and an avid traveler who’s exploring the Kaiserslautern area with dog and husband in tow.
