05 Jun Hot Weather Dog Safety: Enjoying Summer with Your Pup in Colorado
Colorado summers offer endless opportunities for adventure with your dog—whether you’re hiking scenic trails, playing fetch in the park, or relaxing by the water. But as temperatures rise in Leadville and Colorado Springs, it’s essential to protect your furry friend from heat-related dangers. At Mountain Dog Life, we’re passionate about helping dogs thrive in the mountains. Here’s your go-to guide for safe summer fun, plus the gear you’ll need—available in both of our retail locations.
Never Leave Dogs in Hot Cars
Even with the windows cracked, a parked car can become dangerously hot in just minutes—reaching over 120°F on a mild day. Dogs can suffer from heatstroke, which can be fatal. Always take your dog with you or leave them at home in the cool comfort of air conditioning.
Tip: Use a pet-safe travel thermometer to monitor in-car temps if you’re traveling with your pup. We carry these at both our Leadville and Colorado Springs shops.
Hiking in the Heat: Go Early, Bring Water
Colorado’s high altitude offers cool mornings—perfect for dog-friendly hikes. In summer, aim to hike before 10 AM or after 6 PM, and always pack extra water for your pup. Signs of heat exhaustion include:
-Excessive panting
-Drooling
-Lethargy
-Bright red gums
Gear Tip: Grab a collapsible water bowl, dog hydration pack, or cooling vest from Mountain Dogs before you hit the trail. Our team can help you find the perfect fit!
Protect Those Paws from Hot Surfaces
Sidewalks, asphalt, and even rocks can burn a dog’s paw pads. A simple test: if it’s too hot for your hand or bare foot, it’s too hot for your pup.
Solutions We Carry:
-Breathable dog boots for hot surfaces
-Paw wax to create a protective barrier
-Cooling mats for rest breaks
Safe Water Play: Pools, Lakes, and Streams
Water fun is a fantastic way to help your dog stay cool—but safety comes first!
Hoses & Kiddie Pools
-Let water run a bit before spraying; water in a hose can reach scalding temps in the sun.
-Use shallow doggy pools for supervised play.
Rivers & Streams
-Be cautious of fast currents, especially after snowmelt.
-Use a dog life jacket for buoyancy and visibility.
Lakes & Reservoirs
-Avoid stagnant or algae-covered water—blue-green algae is toxic to dogs.
-Rinse your dog after swimming to prevent skin irritation.
Available in Store: Life jackets, floatable toys, pool-safe balls, and quick-dry towels.
Dog-Friendly Water Spots Near You
In Leadville:
-Turquoise Lake: A scenic spot with access points where dogs can swim and cool off.
-Mineral Belt Trail: Offers shaded stretches and creeks along the path.
-Halfmoon Creek: Shallow areas for splash time, great for adventurous pups.
In Colorado Springs:
-Bear Creek Dog Park: Has a creek running through it—great for cooling off mid-play.
-Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Shady trails with seasonal water access.
-Monument Lake: North of the city, calm waters ideal for paddleboarding with dogs.
Summer Must-Haves for Mountain Dogs
Stop by Mountain Dog Life in Leadville or Colorado Springs to pick up summer essentials:
-Cooling gear (vests, bandanas, mats)
-Dog-safe sunscreen (especially for light-colored or short-haired dogs)
-Protective booties
-Hydration packs & bowls
-Life jackets & water toys
Our staff are fellow dog lovers and outdoor adventurers—we’re happy to recommend products based on your dog’s size, activity level, and favorite way to play.
Final Tips for a Safe, Fun Summer
-Always carry ID on your dog—microchip info should be up-to-date.
-Watch out for signs of dehydration or overheating.
-Keep your dog on a leash in new areas, especially around wildlife and fast water.
-Never force your dog to swim—some dogs simply prefer the shore.
At Mountain Dog Life, we believe in making every season safe and fun for your four-legged best friend. Come by and let’s gear up for summer together!
Visit us in Leadville and Colorado Springs
mountaindoglife.com