Summertime is a great time for pet owners to get out and enjoy the outdoors with their furry friends. However, extreme temperatures can be dangerous for pets, just as they are for humans. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 ways to keep your pet safe in the summer heat. From keeping them hydrated to making sure they have plenty of shade, there are plenty of things pet owners can do to ensure their pet’s safety during the hottest months of the year!
1. Respect the heat
When the temperatures start to rise, it’s important to Respect the heat. This means being aware of how your pet is feeling and what their limitations are. If you think your pet is overheating, take them inside or to a cool area immediately. Signs of overheating in pets include excessive panting, drooling, increased body temperature, and fatigue. If your pet is showing any of these signs, give them water and cool them down gradually with a cool wet cloth.
2. Staying hydrated
One of the most important things pet owners can do to keep their pets safe in the summer heat is to make sure they stay hydrated. Pets sweat just like humans do, and when it’s hot outside, they can lose a lot of fluid through sweating. This can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous for pets. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh, clean water to drink and offer them small amounts of water frequently throughout the day. You can also give them ice cubes to lick or add a little bit of chicken broth to their water to help entice them to drink more.
3. Plenty of shade
Another way to keep your pet safe in the summer heat is to make sure they have plenty of shade. Pets can get sunburned just like humans, so it’s important to make sure they have a shady spot to retreat to when they’re outside. If you’re going to be outside with your pet for an extended period of time, consider bringing along a portable pet shelter or umbrella to provide them with some relief from the sun’s rays.
4. Keep an eye on your pet’s paws
It’s also important to keep an eye on your pet’s paws in the summer heat. Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so it’s important to walk them on grass or dirt whenever possible. If you must walk them on pavement, try to do so during the cooler hours of the day and avoid hot asphalt. You can also put booties on your pet’s feet to protect their paws from the hot pavement.
5. Access to shade
Another way to keep your pet safe in the summer heat is to make sure they have access to shade. Pets can get sunburned just like humans, so it’s important to provide them with a shady spot to rest in during hot weather. This can be done by setting up an umbrella or tarp in your backyard, or simply letting them inside during the hottest hours of the day.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure your pet’s safety during the summer months. Stay cool and have fun!
