Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer in Virginia Beach ☀️🐶
There’s nothing like summer in Virginia Beach; sunny skies, warm breezes, and plenty of outdoor fun. But for our canine companions, summer can also bring some serious risks. High temperatures, hot sand, and increased outdoor activity can all pose threats to your dog’s health.
Whether you’re strolling the boardwalk, hiking in First Landing State Park, or relaxing in your backyard, it’s important to keep your furry friend safe from the heat and other seasonal hazards.
Here’s how to enjoy the best of summer while keeping your dog happy and healthy in Virginia Beach:
1. ☀️ Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Dogs can overheat quickly, especially in our humid coastal climate. Heatstroke can be deadly if not caught early.
Watch for symptoms like:
-
Excessive panting or drooling
-
Lethargy or confusion
-
Bright red or pale gums
-
Vomiting or collapse
Prevention Tips:
-
Avoid walks between 10am and 4pm.
-
Provide shade and fresh water at all times.
-
Never leave your dog in a parked car. Temperatures inside can rise dangerously in minutes, even with the windows cracked.
2. 🌊 Be Smart About Beach Time
Dogs are allowed on the beach in Virginia Beach before 10am and after 6pm during the summer season. While beach outings can be a blast, they require extra care.
Beach safety tips:
-
Bring plenty of fresh drinking water (saltwater can cause dehydration and GI upset).
-
Avoid letting your dog eat washed-up fish or trash.
-
Watch out for jellyfish and sharp shells.
-
Rinse off salt and sand after your visit to prevent skin irritation.
3. 🐾 Protect Those Paws from Hot Surfaces
The pavement, boardwalk, and sand can all get dangerously hot during the day, burning your dog’s paw pads.
How to test the surface:
Place the back of your hand on the ground for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pup.
Paw protection options:
-
Stick to shaded, grassy routes (Mount Trashmore is a great local spot).
-
Walk early in the morning or after sunset.
-
Use paw wax or dog booties for extra protection.
4. 💧 Hydration Is Key
Dehydration happens faster than you think—especially when your dog is playing outside in the heat.
Hydration tips:
-
Carry water and a collapsible bowl on walks.
-
Add ice cubes to their bowl at home.
-
Offer dog-safe frozen treats for a cooling snack.
5. 🦟 Stay Ahead of Fleas, Ticks & Mosquitoes
Virginia Beach’s warm, humid climate is ideal for pests that can harm your dog.
Protect your pet from:
-
Fleas: Cause itching and skin infections.
-
Ticks: Can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses.
-
Mosquitoes: Spread heartworm disease.
Make sure your dog is up to date on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, and check for ticks after walks near wooded or grassy areas like Back Bay or Stumpy Lake.
6. 🎆 Prepare for Fireworks & Festivals
Summer events in Virginia Beach, especially around the 4th of July, often include loud fireworks and large crowds. Many dogs become anxious during these events.
Ways to help your dog feel safe:
-
Keep them indoors with calming music or white noise.
-
Use anxiety wraps or calming chews.
-
Make sure their ID tags and microchip info are up to date in case they run.
7. 🐕 Let Us Help You Care for Your Pet This Summer
At Stable Hands Pet Care and Services, we’re proud to support local dog parents across Virginia Beach with trustworthy, experienced care.
We offer:
-
Midday dog visits; in the summer months we shorten the walks and include indoor enrichment time
-
In-home pet sitting while you’re on vacation
-
Wellness checks and water refills for dogs at home
📍 Serving neighborhoods from Kempsville to Oceanfront
💦 Customized care plans for heat-sensitive and senior dogs
📅 Booking now for summer 2025!
Final Thoughts
Summer should be fun and safe for everyone—including your pets. By staying informed and taking a few simple precautions, you can make sure your dog enjoys every sunny day in Virginia Beach.
Need help caring for your dog this summer?
📞 Contact us or call us at 757-318-0400 to schedule a visit or dog walk today.