Summer Exercise for Pups
What does a summer walk look like with your pup friend in Arizona? Roll over, blink at the clock…notice the darkness outside is shifting away as the day begins to lighten – and the walk begins. Your canine companion will be ready to go between 6am and 9am to get in a walk before the temperatures reach 95 degrees in the morning.
Overnight canine kids may be out before sunrise. One overnight friend had the uncanny ability to know it was time for her walk despite the sunshades and plantation shutters darkening the house. Typically, she was a five o’clock in the morning walker. For another older overnight friend, he liked to be up and out at four or four thirty exploring the neighborhood. Both enjoying the concept of starting in the dark and finishing in the light. Beyond the mornings being the coolest part of the day, there is a slight dip in temperatures at sunrise.
During June, July, August and yes, into September, it will be 90-95 degrees often before 8am. Limiting walks in this range are key to keeping your animal companions from overheating or burning your dog’s sensitive paws. The overnight lows in July and August tend to be in the mid-80s yet have soared to the mid-90s meaning the best time will be before sunrise or shortly after.
Walking your dog on grass is preferrable for days when temperatures are above 90 and even for evening strolls.
Test the pavement by holding your hand on the payment for 7 – 10 seconds. If it is too hot for you, it will be for your dog. Some breeds are less tolerant to heat and/or are more susceptible to heatstroke. If you do not know how your dog handles the high summer heat of Arizona, check with your veterinarian.
Many of our canine friends are lower to the ground where the heat coming off the pavement is unbearable, keeping this in mind is important on higher Arizona days.
Choose cooler times of the day for your summer dog walks early in the morning before 9am or after sunset in the evening and on grass in hotter temperatures. Other options include swimming, fun with sprinklers for those who see water as a friend, or indoor play.
