Many pet owners love taking their pets outdoors for summer adventures and much-needed quality time. But of course, hotter months bring unique challenges for our furry companions. It’s best to remember to take some extra precautions to ensure our pets stay safe, cool, and healthy. Here are some essential summer pet care tips to help you and your four-legged friends enjoy the season to the fullest.
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Always keep water available
Just like humans, pets can become easily dehydrated in the heat. Always provide fresh, clean water for your pets, both indoors and outdoors. Putting some ice cubes in your dog’s or cat’s water bowl can be a refreshing treat and won’t cost anything at all!
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Avoid overexposure
For obvious reasons, you must limit your pet’s exposure to direct sunlight and hot surfaces like asphalt, especially during noon and the hottest times of the day. Animals can suffer from sunburn too, particularly on their ears, eyelids, nose, and lips. Hot surfaces can burn their paws. It’s best to take walks and schedule playtimes in the early morning or late evening.
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Never leave pets in parked vehicles
Even with the windows cracked open, temperatures inside a parked car can quickly reach dangerous levels, leading to heatstroke or even death. If you can’t take your pet inside with you, it would be wiser to leave them at home where they can stay cool and comfortable.
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Provide shade and ventilation
Create shaded areas in your yard where your pet can relax outdoors without direct exposure to the sun. If your pet spends time indoors, ensure there’s good airflow and consider using fans or air conditioning to keep them cool.
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Exercise caution near water
While many pets enjoy swimming, not all are natural-born swimmers. Always supervise your pet around water bodies such as pools, lakes, or oceans. Invest in a pet life jacket if your furry friend joins you for water activities.
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Watch out for pests
Summer is prime time for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Use veterinarian-recommended preventatives to protect your pet against these parasites. Check your pet regularly for ticks after spending time outdoors.
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Grooming coat care
Regular brushing and conditioning help remove loose fur and prevent mats, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather. However, avoid shaving your pet’s coat excessively short, as their fur provides natural insulation against both heat and sunburn.
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Be mindful of pavement and hot surfaces
Before heading out for a walk, test the pavement with your hand. If the heat hurts your skin, it’s definitely not a safe surface for your pet to walk on. Walk your pet on grassy areas or use protective booties to shield their paws from burns.
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Recognize signs of heatstroke
Heat stroke occurs in people as well as in animals, but it is entirely preventable if you know the signs to look out for. These may include excessive panting or drooling and lethargy. More serious indications include vomiting and collapsing. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler area, offer water, and seek veterinary care immediately.
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Consider your pet’s unique needs
Remember that different breeds and ages have varying tolerance levels for heat. Older pets, brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, and overweight pets are more susceptible to heat-related issues. Adjust their activities accordingly.
By following these summer pet care tips, you can help ensure your canine and feline family members have a safe and enjoyable summer by your side. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping our pets healthy and happy during the warm months.
