As summer heats up, it’s important to be aware of the dangers your pet might face. Read on to learn how to keep your furry friend cool and safe this summer.
1. Hot asphalt can burn your pet’s paws.
To find out if it’s too hot for a walk, hold your hand to the pavement. If you can’t keep it there for 10 seconds, it’s too hot to walk. Save your stroll for later in the day when it cools off.
2. Temperatures in a vehicle can rise quickly on a hot day.
Even on a 70-degree day, it can take as little as 10 minutes to reach 90 degrees — and cracking the windows doesn’t actually lower the suffocating temperatures. Even a “quick run inside the store” can get unexpectedly delayed, so it’s best to avoid leaving your pet in the car.
3. Pets can suffer from heatstroke.
Watch for signs of overheating, like a temperature over 103°F, excessive drooling, rapid heart rate, glazed eyes, and weakness. If you notice any of these symptoms, get your pet to a cool location and call a veterinarian for advice on what to do next.
4. The risk of fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease increases in the summer months.
Keep your dog or cat on a year-round preventative to reduce her risk for contracting a variety of dangerous diseases brought on by these pets.
5. Pets can get sunburned, just like humans.
A pet with light skin or short hair is more susceptible to sunburn. Talk to a veterinarian about the right pet-friendly sunscreen for keeping sunburn at bay.
6. A dip in the pool is a great way to cool off, but don’t assume your dog is a good swimmer.
Make sure to always keep an eye on your pet when she’s in the water, whether it’s a lake, kiddie pool, or full-size pool.
7. Pets need plenty of water to stay cool.
They can’t sweat to cool down, so panting and drinking plenty of water helps keep their temp in check. Make sure your pet has access to fresh, clean water, and keep her in the shade as much as possible to prevent overheating.