Summer is a season for outdoor activities and having fun in the sun, but keeping your pets safe during these hot months is critical. With a little planning and some easy precautions, you can keep your pet happy and healthy throughout the summer.
Here are some suggestions for keeping your pet safe during the summer.
Make Sure There is Plenty of Water Available
One of the most important things you can do for your pet this summer is to ensure they have constant access to fresh, clean water. Dogs and cats can become dehydrated rapidly in hot weather, so keep plenty of water on hand, especially while you’re out and about.
Keep a water bottle and a bowl on hand, and be sure you refresh both regularly. Bring a portable water dish if you’re going on a lengthy walk or hike.
Limit Your Time Spent Outside
While it may be tempting to spend as much time outside as possible with your pet during the summer, it is critical to restrict their exposure to the sun and heat. Pets can become dangerously hot, which can be fatal.
Avoid spending too much time in direct sunshine by walking early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. If you must go outside during the day, find a shaded location for your pet to relax.
Keep Their Paws Safe
To protect your pet’s feet, consider applying booties or paw wax, or simply avoid walking on the concrete.
To protect your pet’s feet, you could use booties or paw wax or just keep your pet from walking on concrete if you must walk on the pavement, attempt to do so on grass, which will be cooler.
Keep an eye out for signs of heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a dangerous ailment that occurs when pets are exposed to extreme temperatures for an extended period. Heat stroke symptoms include excessive panting, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness.
If you fear your pet is suffering from heat stroke, take them to a cool, shady location and give them water. If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, contact your veterinarian immediately because it can be fatal. If you don’t have a trusted veterinarian, check out Ortinganimalhospital.com as a great option.
Wear sunscreen.
Pets, like humans, can get sunburned. This is particularly true for pets with light-colored or thin fur, such as white cats or hairless dogs. To protect your pet’s skin from the sun’s damaging rays, consider applying pet-friendly sunscreen.
Maintain Their Cool
There are various options for keeping your pet cool during the heat. To assist children in controlling their body temperature, consider giving them a kiddie pool, a cooling mat, or a fan.
You can also moisten their fur to keep them cool or use a gel-filled cooling collar to keep their neck cool.
Avoid Consuming Dangerous Foods
It’s tempting to give your pets cold, refreshing treats like ice cream or popsicles during the summer.
However, these treats can be harmful to pets, causing digestive issues or even life-threatening diseases such as pancreatitis. To keep your pet cool and content, stick to pet-friendly snacks like frozen carrots or peanut butter-filled Kongs.
