Summer is the perfect season for outdoor adventures and quality time with your dog. Are you ready to keep your dog safe and comfortable this summer?
1. How hot can the inside of a car get on a 25掳 Celsius day in just 10 minutes?
a. 28掳C
b. 32掳C
c. 37掳C
d. 44掳C
2. True or False: Cracking the windows is enough to keep your dog safe while you run into a store for a few minutes.
3. True or False: It鈥檚 okay for your dog to ride in the back of an open pickup truck as long as they鈥檙e not leashed.
4. What should you pack when hiking with your dog? (Choose all that apply)
a. Water and a collapsible bowl
b. Dog booties or paw protection
c. First-aid supplies
d. A bag of treats or food
5. Which of the following is true?
a. All dogs are good swimmers
b. Life jackets are unnecessary if your dog likes water
c. Not all dogs are natural swimmers
d. Drinking lake or river water is completely safe for dogs
6. When planning a road trip with your dog, what should you do to keep them safe?
a. Let them roam the car for comfort
b. Use a secured crate or seatbelt harness
c. Feed them a big meal before you leave
7. What鈥檚 one sign of heatstroke in dogs?
a. Barking
b. Wagging
c. Heavy panting and drooling
d. Cold ears and tail
8. What should you do after walking in wooded or tall grass areas with your dog?
a. Spray your dog with bug spray
b. Check your dog鈥檚 coat and skin thoroughly for ticks
c. Give your dog a bath right away
d. Only check if you saw a tick during the walk
Check Your Answers:
1. d. The inside of a car can reach over 44掳C within 10 minutes on a warm day. Never leave your dog in a vehicle unattended.
2. False. Cracking the windows doesn鈥檛 keep a vehicle safe from heat. Always take your dog with you or leave them at home.
3. False. In British Columbia, it is illegal and dangerous for dogs to ride unrestrained in the back of a pickup truck. Both the Motor Vehicle Act (Section 72) and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (Section 9.3) prohibit transporting unsecured animals in open truck beds. Dogs must be properly secured in a crate or safely inside the vehicle cab. Report it by calling 911.
4. All of the above. Water, paw protection, treats, and first-aid supplies are all essential for a safe hike.
5. c. Even strong swimmers can overdo it or get tired. Always supervise and consider a doggy life jacket.
6. b. Dogs should always be secured in a crate or with a seatbelt harness for safety on the road.
7. c. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, red gums or tongue. Seek veterinary care.
8. b. Always check your dog thoroughly for ticks after walking in wooded or tall grass areas. Ticks can latch on without being noticed and carry diseases such as Lyme disease. Pay special attention to the ears, belly, between the toes, under the collar, and around the tail.
Summer adventures can be a blast, with a little planning, awareness, and quick action when needed, you and your furbaby can enjoy a safe, happy, and active summer together.
