Keeping Your Dog Safe in Hot Weather

Lucky Penny Pet Care Blog | Midtown Dog Walker

www.luckypennypetcare.com

Summer is all about sunshine, longer days, and outdoor adventures — but when the temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra care with your dog’s walks. Dogs can overheat much faster than humans, and some breeds are especially sensitive to heat.

Here are some smart, simple ways to keep your pup safe, happy, and cool during those hot summer strolls:

1. Walk During Cooler Parts of the Day

Plan walks early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. Midday sun can be brutal, even on seemingly mild days. Pro Tip: If you wouldn't walk barefoot on the pavement, it’s too hot for your dog's paws too!

2. Stick to Shady Routes

Look for trails, parks, or streets lined with trees. Shade can lower the ground temperature significantly and help your dog stay more comfortable during their walk.

3. Shorten Walks as Needed

When it’s really hot, it’s okay to cut walks shorter than usual. A quick potty break and some indoor playtime can be a safer alternative when the heat is extreme. For our walks we always monitor the dogs and ensure they have lots of shade, access to water and shorter play sessions.

4. Keep Them Hydrated

Always bring water for your dog (and yourself!) on walks. Portable dog bowls or water bottles designed for pets make it easy to offer them a drink along the way.

5. Watch for Signs of Overheating

Know the warning signs that your dog is too hot:

• Excessive panting

• Drooling

• Bright red gums

• Weakness or wobbling

• Vomiting or diarrhea

If you notice any of these, get your dog to a cool place immediately and offer small amounts of water. Place a cold wet towel on your dog. See your vet if symptoms don't improve.

6. Consider Protective Gear

Some dogs benefit from cooling vests, breathable harnesses, or paw wax to protect their feet from hot surfaces. If your dog tolerates them, these can be game-changers during heatwaves.

7. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car

Even for a "quick second," a car can heat up like an oven — even with the windows cracked. Always bring your dog inside with you or leave them at home if you can’t. At Lucky Penny Pet Care we leave the car running with the AC on during pick ups and drop offs.

At Lucky Penny Pet Care, your dog's safety comes first — every walk, every season.Our team is trained to adjust walk lengths, routes, and activities based on weather conditions so your pup stays safe and happy all year long.👉 Learn more about our services here!

What Makes Lucky Penny Pet Care Different?

Lucky Penny Pet Care Blog | Midtown Toronto Dog Walker

www.luckypennypetcare.com

When it comes to caring for your dog, we know you have options in Midtown Toronto — and we believe you should feel 100% confident and excited about the people you trust with your pet. At Lucky Penny Pet Care, we don't just offer walks and daycare; we offer peace of mind, real connection, and unforgettable adventures for your furry family member.

Here’s what truly sets us apart:

1. Personalized Care for Every Dog

No two dogs are the same — and we love it that way! Whether your pup is a high-energy adventurer, a gentle senior, or a cautious first timer, we tailor our care to their unique needs and personality. We take the time to really get to know your dog, so every walk, playdate, and outing is safe, fun and rewarding.

2. Professional, Experienced, and Certified

Your dog's safety is our top priority. Lucky Penny Pet Care is fully insured and pet first aid certified. We bring years of hands on experience with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments, so you can trust your best friend is in good hands — every single time.

3. Adventure-Focused Walks

We believe dogs deserve more than just a loop around the block. Our group outings often head to Sunnybrook Off-Leash Park, where dogs can run, explore, and socialize under careful supervision in a large dog park. Fresh air, mental stimulation, and physical exercise — it’s all part of the Lucky Penny Pet Care difference.

4. Small Groups, Big Attention

We keep our group size to the legal maximum of 6, to ensure every dog gets the attention, supervision, and encouragement they deserve. This allows for safer play, better behaviour management, and deeper relationships between dogs and their walker. We also strive to put dogs with similar temperaments and play structure in the same group.

5. Transparent Communication

We love keeping you connected to your dog's day! Expect text updates, adorable photos, and honest communication about how your pup is doing. We believe you should always know that your dog’s in good hands — and smiling while they’re at it.

6. We Treat Your Dog Like Family

At Lucky Penny Pet Care, your dog becomes part of our extended family. We celebrate their quirks, cheer on their milestones, and treat them with the love, respect, and kindness they deserve. It’s not just a job — it’s a passion.

Experience the Lucky Penny Difference for Yourself! If you’re looking for a dog walker in Midtown Toronto that puts your dog's happiness, health, and well-being first, we’d love to meet you.

👉 Contact us today to get started - luckypennycare@gmail.com

Tips for Hiring a Dog Walker

Lucky Penny Pet Care Blog | Midtown Dog Walker

www.luckypennypetcare.com

Finding the right dog walker can feel a little overwhelming. After all, you're trusting someone with your beloved pup’s safety, happiness, and daily routine. Whether you're hiring a dog walker for the first time or switching from another service, here are a few key things to keep in mind to help you make the best choice.

1. Check Their Experience and Qualifications

A good dog walker should have hands-on experience handling dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments. Bonus points if they're trained in pet first aid (like we are at Lucky Penny Pet Care!) and understand basic canine behaviour. Don't hesitate to ask about their background — a true professional will be happy to share.

2. Ask About Group Walks vs. Private Walks

Some dogs thrive in group settings, while others do better one-on-one. Find out if the walker offers group outings, private walks, or both, and think about which option suits your dog best. At Lucky Penny Pet Care, for example, we carefully match dogs for group adventures to ensure everyone has fun and stays safe.

3. Make Sure They’re Fully Insured

Insurance isn’t just a formality — it’s peace of mind. Always choose a dog walker who carries proper insurance to protect your dog, your property, and themselves in case of an accident. This is a non-negotiable when it comes to professionalism.

4. Look for a Personal Touch

Your dog isn’t just another name on a schedule. A great dog walker will want to get to know your dog's unique personality, energy level, likes, and dislikes. Personal connections matter! At Lucky Penny, we treat every pup like family — because they are.

5. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Before you commit, take a peek at online reviews or ask for references. Hearing from other pet parents can give you insight into what it's really like working with the dog walker. Look for comments about reliability, communication, and how happy (and tired!) the dogs are after their walks.

6. Ask About Their Communication Style

You should never be left wondering how your dog's walk went. Whether it’s text updates, report cards, or adorable photos from their adventures, clear and consistent communication is key. (We love sending our families photo updates from our outings!)

7. Trust Your Gut

Finally, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right during the meet-and-greet or after their first day, it’s okay to keep looking. You and your dog both deserve someone you feel 100% confident about.

Looking for a Dog Walker You Can Count On? At Lucky Penny Pet Care, we offer professional, loving dog walking services tailored to your best friend's needs. Fully insured, pet first aid certified, and ready to treat your dog like one of our own — because that's what family is all about.👉 Learn more about our services here!