Healthy and Safe Pets Make for a Great Summer!

For more fun ways to keep your pet safe click here.

As the temperature starts to rise in the summer months, it's essential to ensure that your pets are safe and comfortable. Dogs and cats can suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses during hot weather if proper care is not taken. Here are some tips on how to keep your furry friends happy and healthy during the summer.

Keep your pets hydrated

Water is vital for pets during the summer. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Refill their water bowl frequently and consider adding ice cubes to keep the water cool. If you're taking your dog for a walk, bring water with you, and offer it to them regularly.

Provide shade

It's important to provide your pets with a shaded area where they can cool down and escape the heat. If your pet spends time outside, make sure they have access to shade at all times. If you have a cat that likes to lounge in the sun, provide them with a shady spot to retreat to when they need a break.

Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day

Exercise is essential for pets, but during the summer months, it's important to limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day. The best time to exercise your pet is early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This will help prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.

Protect their paws

Hot pavement, sand, and other surfaces can burn your pet's paws. When walking your dog, try to avoid hot surfaces and walk on grass or in the shade. If you're taking your dog to the beach, consider bringing a mat or towel for them to lie on.

Groom your pets

Grooming your pets during the summer months can help keep them cool and comfortable. Cats and dogs with long hair may benefit from a summer haircut, but be careful not to shave them completely, as their fur helps regulate body temperature. Brushing your pets regularly can also help remove loose hair and prevent matting.

Watch for signs of heatstroke

Heatstroke is a serious condition that can be fatal if left untreated. Signs of heatstroke in pets include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool, shaded area, offer them water, and contact your veterinarian immediately.

Don't leave pets in the car

Leaving your pets in the car during the summer can be deadly. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit within minutes. If you need to run errands, leave your pets at home where they'll be safe and comfortable.

Consider indoor activities

On particularly hot days, consider indoor activities with your pets to keep them cool. Teach your dog a new trick or play with your cat using toys. You can also offer your pets frozen treats made from pet-friendly ingredients, like frozen peanut butter and banana.

Protect them from insects

Summer is the season for bugs, and some of them can be dangerous to your pets. Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm, which can be deadly to dogs and cats. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, and fleas can cause itchy skin and allergic reactions. Protect your pets from insects by using flea and tick preventative, keeping them indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, and avoiding areas with high insect populations.

Know your pet's limits

Every pet is different, and some may be more sensitive to heat than others. Be mindful of your pet's behavior and know their limits. If they seem uncomfortable, move them to a cooler area or offer them water. If you think your pet is not improving take them to your Vet.

Remember, even though it's very important to keep your pets safe during summer. Make sure you have a lot of fun with too.

For more fun ways to keep your pet safe click here.