Summer Pet Safety Tips to Keep Your Furry Pals Well
Summer is officially here – and so are higher temps. Since we live in a climate that tends to be in the mid to upper 80’s throughout June, July, and August, we must always be aware of the affect that summer weather has on our pets. To do so, here are 7 summer pet safety tips to keep your pets cool and hydrated during the heat wave.
7 Tips to Protect Your Pets in the Summer Sun
1. For outdoor pets, be certain your dog or cat has access to plenty of fresh water. Hydration is key to beating the summer heat.
2. Whether you’re at the park, on the beach, or in the backyard, provide enough shade for your pup to catch a break from the sun.
3. Since peak temperatures range from 10am through 3pm, keep midday walks brief. Exercise your pets during cooler hours of the day, like first thing in the morning and again in the evening.
4. While out for your daily jog, avoid excessive walking on hot surfaces, like asphalt. Hot surfaces can severely burn your pet’s paws that may cause painful burns and blisters.
5. Purchase a plastic kiddie pool from your local dollar store. Fill with water and let your pup play. Swim time can help keep them cool when the heat wave hits, plus it’s great exercise and fun, too!
6. Grooming goes a long way, especially in pets with longer coats. For sun protection, apply dog-safe, zinc-free sunscreen to sun-sensitive areas of the body such as the nose, around the lips, tips of the ears, and the belly throughout the day (talk to your Longwood veterinarian to see if this is a good option for your pet).
7. Finally, never, ever leave your dog in the car ¬– even just for a minute! Doing so can lead to severe dehydration, heatstroke, organ failure, and even death. Estimated vehicle temperatures can soar well above a tolerable heat index for humans, and pets are no different. See the estimated vehicle temperature and time chart below.
