Summertime means hot weather, swimming pools and barbecues with your family and friends. However, when the temperatures get warmer, your dog has a much higher risk of getting hurt. To prevent your pup from getting harmed, you have to take the proper precautions. Here are five summer dangers that can harm your dog.

Heat Stroke

Since dogs get rid of heat by panting, you have to be really careful with them during the summer months. If your pooch gets overheated, he can experience dehydration, irregular heart beats, seizures and shock. Never leave your dog in a car and watch him carefully when he plays outdoors. Do not let your pooch play outside too long and always have a bowl of water for him.

Ticks

Your dog will likely be spending more time outside during the summer, so you have to watch out for ticks. These insects can get in your dog's skin and cause several diseases including Lyme disease. It is a good idea to inspect your furry friend's coat for ticks at least once a day. If you spot a tick, take your pup to the veterinarian's office.

Bees

Dogs are naturally curious creatures and might go chasing after bees in the backyard. However, going after a bee can get your pooch stung. If your dog experiences a lot of swelling, you should take him to the veterinarian's office to be treated for a bee sting allergy.

Barbecues

Everyone enjoys a good barbecue, including your dog. Your pooch will be very excited to clean up everyone's table scraps. However, many of these barbecue foods can be harmful for your furry friend. For example, if your dog gets his paws on corn on the cob, he can start choking. Politely ask your guests to avoid feeding your dog and throw away their leftover food in the garbage.

Sidewalks

The summer sun can make sidewalks scorching hot, hurting your dog's paws. It is best to walk your dog in the early morning and late evening when the sidewalks have cooled off a bit. If you still want to walk your pooch in the middle of the day, at least put booties on his paws.

If you carefully watch your dog in the summertime, he is less likely to get hurt. However, if your pooch does encounter one of these summer dangers, you should take him to see a veterinarian or an emergency specialist like the Animal Emergency Clinic as soon as possible.