As another Marblehead summer arrives, dog owners must navigate the challenges of keeping their furry friends safe and comfortable in the heat.
Local dog owners and experts shared their concerns and tips for ensuring a happy and healthy summer for Marblehead’s beloved canine residents.
According to Marblehead’s town bylaws (Article 13, Section 10), dogs are prohibited from public beaches, athletic areas, playgrounds and parks between May 1 and Oct. 1. However, they are still welcome, on leash, at designated locations like Chandler Hovey Park, Crocker Park, Fort Sewall, Fountain Park, Upper Seaside Park, Riverhead Beach, and the town dog park on Lime Street.
One major concern during summer walks is the temperature of the pavement. Asphalt can reach a scorching 125 degrees when the air temperature is just 77 degrees, potentially burning a dog’s paws within seconds, according to the Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Marblehead residents Megan and Sue Waters own an Australian shepherd named Brie.
“I worry about her paws on the pavement because puppies’ feet get hot and it’s not something we think about because we have shoes on,” Megan said.
If the pavement is too hot for a proper walk, Pawsitively Marblehead owner Erin McDonald recommends supplementing a lack of physical stimulation with mental stimulation. She suggests giving dogs treat toys and puzzles to keep them engaged.
Aside from the pavement, dogs can get heat stroke if left in a hot car with inadequate ventilation or outside without access to shade or water, according to Atlantic Veterinary Hospital. Since dog’s cannot sweat, only pant, they’re unable to regulate their body temperature as well as humans can.
If your dog is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, or hyperthermia, take them to the vet immediately. Symptoms include elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, abnormal gum color and appearing lethargic or disoriented. If you can’t get to the vet right away, pour cool water over the dog’s head, stomach, armpits and feet and make sure your pup is exposed to a continuous airflow.
“We put the sprinklers on for her and bring her swimming when we can. We also encourage her to stay in the shade when she’s on the porch and keep her water bowl outside,” Megan said of Brie when outdoor temperatures are hot.
Another issue to look out for in the summer concerns dog anxiety. Fireworks on the Fourth of July and throughout the summer, paired with thunderstorms and nightly harbor cannons, can cause immense distress for dogs.
McDonald recommends trying out CBD for dogs, especially around the Fourth of July.
“A huge concern with the fireworks is dogs running away,” McDonald told the Current.
Pawsitively Marblehead carries CBD for dogs. Available in oil form, peanut butter and dog treats, CBD can help keep pups calm during these stressful situations.
Regardless of the measures owners can take to keep their dogs safe in the summer, the question remains: Should more public spaces be open to pups year-round?
“I get upset walking the dog on the hot pavement, but most parks and beaches are closed to puppies in the summertime. Sidewalks can be hazardous and are no longer on some side streets or areas of town,” Sue told the Current. “Meanwhile, there’s trash that people leave everywhere, which is just as harmful to the environment. I find myself picking up that along with my dog’s waste.”
Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the University of Maryland.
