Summer is known for outdoor adventures and sunny days. But while many people love the heat, it can be risky for our furry friends. Luckily, we can still have fun while keeping our dogs and cats safe. So, here are eight safety tips to protect your pets this summer.
#1 – Avoid Hot Pavement
You’ve probably heard about the risks of hot pavement on puppy paws. But this rule doesn’t just apply to when it’s 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is 77 degrees outside, dark-colored asphalt could heat up to 125 degrees! So, imagine how hot it will feel when the temperatures reach the 80s and 90s.
If you can’t put your hand on the ground for more than a few seconds, then it’s not safe for your pet. Try to walk in grassy areas or on shaded sidewalks instead. Otherwise, you can buy dog boots to protect your furry friend’s paws.
#2 – Keep Walks Short
Walking is a great way to keep your dog in shape and entertain them. Yet, if it’s sweltering outside, long walks can be risky too. Dogs with short snouts or thick coats are at a high risk of heat stroke in the summer, so limit their time outdoors to keep them safe.
The best time to walk your dog is early in the morning or late at night. That way, the temperature will be cooler, and so will the sidewalk. Walking in shaded parks can also prevent your pet from overheating.
#3 – Bring Water with You
Whenever you travel with your pet, it’s a good idea to bring water with you. This is true any time of the year, but it’s especially important in the summer. Even if it’s just a trip to the vet, it can’t hurt to have some extra water along.
A collapsible bowl is a great thing to keep on you. It doesn’t take up much space, but it provides a clean water bowl for your pet. If your pet is panting, drooling, or showing other signs of overheating, offer them some water.
#4 – Leave Your Pet Home When Running Errands
Some pets love leaving the house and going on adventures. But if you’re planning to run errands while you’re out, leave your furry friend at home. Like asphalt, a car can heat up rapidly when the sun is out. Even if it’s only 70 degrees with the windows rolled down, the car could get 10 degrees hotter in only 10 minutes.
No matter how quick your errands are, don’t leave a pet in the car. Once it reaches a certain temperature outside, shade and rolled down windows won’t do much help. So, leave your pets home for their own safety.
#5 – Be Mindful of Grooming
If a dog or cat looks hot outside, a common response is to shave them. While this can help some breeds, it could make things worse for others. Some animals that shed have what’s called a “double coat.” Double coats have two layers: a dense under layer and a protective outer layer. These coats keep animals warm in the winter and protect them from sunburn in the summer.
Shaving a double-coated animal could permanently damage their coats. Only shave their fur if they have hair that continuously grows instead of sheds. When in doubt, ask a professional groomer for advice.
#6 – Look out for Harmful Pesticides
Warmer weather also means more pests. Many families choose to spray their lawns with pesticides because of this. Sadly, most pesticides are not safe for pets. So, if you see a flag indicating that a lawn has been sprayed, keep your pets away from it. When it doubt, wipe their paws before they come back inside.
#7 – Don’t Bring Your Pet to See Fireworks
Fireworks are a favorite for humans in July, but they’re one of the biggest causes for anxiety in pets. So, don’t bring your pet along for any celebration that includes fireworks. It will likely only spook them and make them more likely to run away.
Make sure your dog is microchipped and is wearing identification tags, especially on the fourth of July. If there’s no way for you to keep them away from the sound of fireworks, consult your vet about ways to soothe their stress.
#8 – Remember to Give Monthly Preventatives
Pests don’t only affect lawns, but they could also climb into your pet’s coat. Fleas, ticks, and other critters thrive in warm weather. So, don’t forget to give your dog preventatives for heartworms, fleas, and ticks. These should be given year-round, but they’re especially crucial for summer and spring safety.
Summer is full of excitement for humans and pets. But don’t let the fun come before safety. Warm weather, bugs, and fireworks are all hazards for pets this summer. So, do what you can to keep them as protected as possible. Then, you can have fun without needing to worry about your pet’s health.