The Frenchie Bulldog days of summer can be RUFF! Especially for, well, your pup! They’re members of the family, too so it’s only natural that they tag along for all the summer fun. But as they do, it’s crucial as Frenchie owners to make sure your four-legged friend is safe all summer long from the heat, the insects, potential sunburns and more! So before the temperatures really start rising, become well-versed in all of our summer safety tips for your Frenchie.
TIP #1: WATER AND SHADE
All summer long, inside or out, make sure your Frenchie is getting plenty of water. Frenchies can warm up and become dehydrated quicker than we do, so having plenty of water around at all times is crucial. If you think your Frenchie might be a bit dehydrated, look for dry gums, excessive drooling, bright red gums and wobbliness.
TIP #2: PROTECT THE PAWS
Sidewalks and asphalt get hot in the summer, hot enough that we likely couldn’t walk on them barefoot and be comfortably. So why would think your Frenchie could? Their paw pads are thick, because they serve to protect, but they still experience wear and tear from heat, fertilizers, sand, sharp rocks and pebbles and more.
TIP #3: DON’T FORGET THEM IN THE CAR
This is a no-brainer. Don’t leave your Frenchie in the car. Even when you think it’s not too hot outside, the inside temperature of a car is exponentially warmer. On a sunny, 70 degree day, a car’s internal temperature can reach 104 degrees within 30 minutes. Imagine how warm it would get in 85 degree weather or warmer. So all in all, don’t forget the pup!
TIP #4: TAKE THEM FOR WALKS IN THE MORNING AND THE EVENING
Heat strokes in animals during the summer is a real thing. There are many measures you can take as a Frenchie owner to prevent heat stroke all together. Being strategic about when you take your Frenchie for longer walks is a great start. Take them for walks and exercise in the morning or in the evenings when things start to cool down. It will be a more pleasant, and safer experience for both of you.
TIP #5: BE MINDFUL OF SUNBURN
Just because your Frenchie has fur doesn’t mean they are exempt from catching a painful sunburn. Find a pet sunscreen you can trust and slather it on areas that are more exposed to the sun like their ears, belly and nose.
TIP #6: MAINTAIN YOUR FRENCHIE'S GROOMING AND HAIRCUTS
Keep the fur short and tidy to keep your Frenchie cool! Every little bit of effort helps. Make those grooming appointments regularly during the hot summer months.
TIP #7: PROTECT THEM FROM MOSQUITOES AND TICKS
Mosquitoes and ticks come out to play in the summer, and unfortunately are another thing to worry about when trying to keep your Frenchie safe all summer long.
TIP #8: KEEP THEM AWAY FROM FIREWORKS
Many Frenchies are incredibly afraid of fireworks. Some become so startled, they react by running away from home. For that reason, it’s best to keep your little Frenchie inside during any celebrations with fireworks.
