Hot Weather Safety Tips For Pets
Summer heat is hard on all of us, and especially for our four log companions. Even a short time in a hot environment can spell danger to them. The combination of high temperatures and power cuts due to storms can be devastating, especially in areas that already struggle to adapt to rising temperatures and thick humidity.
Keep your pets cool and comfortable this summer by following expert vet tips and advices.
1. Conduct Pre-Summer Clinical Checkup
Take your pet in for an early summer checkup, at your nearest pet/animal clinic. Fleas, ticks, and heartworm are more prevalent in hot weather; make sure your pet is protected from these diseases.
2. Use Plenty of Fresh Water
When taking your pet outside in extreme and humid weather, make sure to provide plenty of clean, fresh water. Learn the warning symptoms of heat stress from your vet.
3. Give A Fresh And Healthy Shower
Give your pet free access to swim in clean water at all times. Not all dogs are excellent swimmers, so never leave your pet unattended near water. Pets should be introduced to the water slowly and floating devices should be used whenever possible. You should avoid letting your dog consume the pool water, as it contains chlorine and other chemicals that could be harmful to your dog’s health.
4. Always Choose Shady Areas
When moving with your pet outside, make sure to have a place with some shade. It’s very risky to leave pets in a stopped car and also illegal in a few states because it can cause fatal heat stroke.
Keep your home’s doors and windows shut if they don’t have screens, and lock the screens that can be adjusted. Flat-faced animals, such as Pugs and Persian cats, are more at risk of heat stroke because they cannot pant as effectively. These animals, along with the elderly, the overweight, and those with heart or lung disease, should spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned spaces.
Don’t leave your pet abandoned on asphalt when the weather is extremely warm because your pet’s paw pads are especially prone to burning because of their proximity to the earth.
5. Engage Pets in Some Healthy Exercises
Spend some time with your pet outside in the mornings or evenings and employ a few fitness exercises for your pet. But Before beginning a fitness routine with your pet, you should talk to your vet.
6. Do Not Travel With Pets in Summer
If you need to go out or go somewhere far away, leaving your pets at home is the best option. If you still want to travel with pets, read our pet travel safety guide.
7. Try Pet Grooming Services
If your pet has longer hair, feel free to cut it. Cats can be protected from the effects of heat by being brushed more frequently than normal. Find out from your vet if a summer cut or sunscreen would be beneficial for your cat. Dogs can easily overheat in the summer, but their thick coats provide protection from the weather.
8. Get Rid of Potential Chemicals in Your Surrounding
When giving your pet sunscreen, bug repellent, or food, check the label to make sure it says it’s safe for pets. Keep in mind that many of the foods and drinks served at grills can be harmful to dogs. Alcohol can induce intoxication, depression, and commas in pets, so keep it out of their reach. A change in diet, even for just one meal, can cause serious digestive issues in your dog or cat, so remember that the snacks enjoyed by your pet should not be a treat for your pet. Stay away from dried fruits, onions, garlic, cocoa, and anything sweetened with xylitol.
Also, make sure that your pet can’t get to any citronella candles, tiki torch products, or insect coils. Even unlit fireworks pose a risk if touched, as they may cause serious burns or other injuries. When there are loud noises, it’s best to keep your pets in a quiet, sheltered, and escape-proof area of the house so they don’t get lost, frightened, or disoriented.
Check whether every plant in your backyard is pet-friendly or not. Keep your pets away from chemicals like fertilizer, insecticide and rodenticides used around the house and yard.
Final Thoughts
It’s crucial to ensure that our furry friends stay cool and comfortable during hot weather conditions. Simple measures such as providing plenty of fresh water, avoiding strenuous exercise during peak heat hours, and providing shaded areas can go a long way in protecting our pets from heat-related illnesses. Additionally, pet owners should be aware of the signs and symptoms of heatstroke and take immediate action if they suspect their pet is suffering from it.
