After a year of lockdown restrictions, people and their pets are going to be eager to get out and truly enjoy themselves as soon as the weather gets warmer.
Warm weather pet safety is important. Keeping them in the shade and putting them near a fan or AC unit can be helpful, but it isn’t enough if you want to protect them from overheating.
Do you want to keep your pets safe when you’re out and about this summer? Here are our simple, yet crucial, summer pet tips.
Provide Plenty of Water
Pets can work up a big thirst whether they’re outside playing or just laying in the shade. That’s why it’s important to provide drinking water for them when the weather gets warm.
Dogs can dehydrate quickly in hot and humid weather, and that’s especially true for puppies, toy breeds, older dogs, and nursing mothers. Regardless of if they’re outdoors playing or inside in the AC, make sure they have plenty of water handy.
Cat owners need to make sure their furry friends have plenty of water to drink too. When you’re giving your cat water, try to make it room temperature. Many cats don’t like ice-cold water.
Know the Signs of Danger
Despite all of your best prep work, things can still go wrong with your pet. This is why it’s important for every pet owner to know the signs of heatstroke in their animals.
There are some symptoms that are unique to cats and dogs. A dog that seems confused, has a very dry nose, or excessive drooling could be suffering from heatstroke. Cats that seem agitated, have nose bleeds, seizures, or muscle tremors could be suffering from heatstroke as well.
While there are some signs that are unique to dogs and cats, there are others that are universal. If you notice any of these problems with your pet, get them out of the heat and take them to the vet immediately:
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Bright red tounges
- Dark red or pale gums
- Diarrhea
- Weakness and lethargy
Avoid Hot Cars
Are you used to taking your dog on errands? You may want to consider leaving them home when it’s very hot. Your dog can enjoy a few minutes in the car when it’s cooler out, but it can be deadly in the summer.
People talk a lot about how dangerous leaving babies and toddlers in hot cars can be, but few mention how dangerous it can be for pets. It doesn’t take long for pets to become dehydrated and suffer from heatstroke and other problems. Hot cars can easily reach temperatures into the triple digits. It’s even possible for cars that previously had the air conditioning on to get dangerously hot.
Do you have no choice but to bring your pet with you? If so, consider leaving the car running so they can enjoy the AC. If that isn’t an option leave the windows down, make sure your pet is secure, and go about your business as quickly as possible so you can get back to your pet.
Protect Their Paws
Your dog’s footpads may be tough, but they’re still sensitive to heat. If you aren’t careful your dog could go on its usual walk and come back with blisters or even minor burns.
We recommend using a literal rule of thumb here. Before you take your dog for a walk, go to the sidewalk and street and gently press your thumb down. If it’s painful for you, it won’t be safe for your dog.
Consider getting a comfortable pair of booties for your dog to wear during the hottest days of summer. They’ll help protect their paws and keep them safe from damage. If your dog wants to hang out with the family outside, consider getting them a kiddy pool to lounge in or periodically wetting the ground with a hose.
Watch for Air Quality Alerts
It’s very common for many weather forecasters to talk about air quality in the summer months. If you want to keep your outdoor-loving dogs safe, make sure you check on air quality standards before you take them out for a walk or run.
Air quality can negatively affect all of our lungs. Dogs with breathing or lung problems should avoid being outside for long periods of time when the air quality is at its worst.
Does your high-energy dog need to be outside on bad air-quality days? If they need their exercise consider taking them outside during the early morning and later evening hours. Air quality usually is at its worst during the afternoon hours.
Go to the Groomers
You may be traveling a lot this summer, but you shouldn’t neglect your appointments with the groomer. If anything, stringent grooming is even more important during the hotter months.
Dogs with long coats can feel more comfortable with a summer cut. The right groomer can shave off a lot of excess hair without harming your dog’s coat or overall look.
It’s important to note that shorter hair in the summer has other benefits too. The warmer months are great for ticks and fleas. Having a shorter coat could make them easier to spot.
Keep Your Pets Safe the Blue Collar Way
Summertime can be a dangerous time, but luckily, it doesn’t have to be hard to keep your pets safe. Giving them plenty of water, keeping them out of the heat, and paying attention to their grooming and paws can be enough to make sure everyone has a great summer.
Are you planning a big move or a long vacation this summer and want to make sure your pet can travel in safety and comfort? We’re ready to keep your dogs and cats happy, healthy, and get them ready for travel.
Don’t hesitate to reach out so we can talk about the best way to meet your pet’s needs.