Summer is a great time to get outside and have some fun in the sun with our furry friends, but doing so without preparing your pet for the heat can be extremely dangerous for them. If you plan on spending the day outside with your pet this summer, make sure to take these precautions to have a safe and enjoyable time!
Load Up on Pet SPF (Summer Protection Factors)
Pets often don’t wear sunscreen like we do, but there are plenty of things you can do as an owner to make sure they’re protected from anything harmful that the summer season may bring!
Understand Your Pet
It’s important to know what your pet can and can’t handle during these warmer months. Make sure you’re aware of these symptoms of dehydration and overheating in pets:
- Excessive Panting or Difficulty Breathing
- Increased Heart Rate
- Drooling or Mild Weakness
- Sunken Eyes and/or Dry Mouth/Nose
- Vomiting and/or Diarrhea
Remember that if your pet has a flat face, they are more susceptible to heat strokes since they can’t pant as effectively. Also, make sure you protect your pet’s paws by keeping walks and time on hot surfaces to a minimum.
Have H20 on the Go
During these hot and humid months, pets can get dehydrated rather quickly, so keeping clean water available for them is extremely important. Whether you’re playing outside with them, just letting them out or sunbathing, just be sure to have some water ready to keep them hydrated and cool.
No, Not a Watch Dog. Watch, Dog!
When you’re out with your pet, or letting them out, it’s important to always keep an eye on them to make sure they are safe and healthy. Summer is definitely not the season you want to be caught forgetting where you last left your fur-baby!
Never Leave Your Pet in a Car
Parked cars are the last place you should ever leave your pet. Cars without A/C running heat up very quickly during hot days and can lead to fatal heat strokes for your pets if they’re left unaccompanied. Not only is this dangerous, but also illegal in several states!
When a Swimming Pool isn’t Cool
Never leave your pet unsupervised around a pool. If you’re a dog owner, be aware that not all dogs are good swimmers. You never want to risk your pet falling in without anyone watching. Also, if your pet does swim or go into the water, be sure to rinse them off to remove any chemicals or salt from the pool water.
No Hot Dogs for Your Hot Dog
Summer is a great time for barbeques and cookouts! However, be sure to keep an eye out for your pet when you leave food out. Alcohol, grapes, onions and any product with xylitol can be toxic for your pet. Make sure you are aware of all the *people foods you should avoid feeding your pets* prior to hosting your next big cookout!
A Word from South County Animal Hospital
We at South County Animal Hospital hope you and your furry friends have had a safe and fun-filled summer so far this year. Whether you’re going on trips together, getting fit together or being homebodies together, our wish is that your pet gets to enjoy the longest, happiest life with the one they love the most: you. Make great memories, be safe, and we look forward to seeing you and your pet at your next visit!
