Summer Safety Tips for Pets

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Do you understand how to keep your pets out of harm’s way during the sizzling summer days? There are some common dangers to your pets and hidden ones you need to know about to protect your cherished companion.

Keep pets safe in the heat by providing enough water to prevent dehydration and watch for signs of heatstroke. Walk your dog during the cooler times of the day to avoid overheating. It would be best if you also protect your pet from flowers and plants that are poisonous to them. 

You should also never leave your pet in a hot car. If you want more summer safety tips for pets, check out this article.

Summer Safety Tips for Pets

With the weather heating up and temperatures rising, there comes a danger for your precious pooches and feisty felines. But there are some ways you can help keep your pets safe and happy in the heat:

Protect Pets from the Heat

Provide your pet with plenty of water to prevent dehydration and ensure they have a shady place to retreat from the heat when it is hot and humid. If it is brutal outside, keep your pets indoors. Try switching to wet food during the summer to give your furry friend extra fluid.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

You should avoid exercising your pet in scorching weather. Walk your dog during cooler times, such as early morning and evening. Be aware of the signs of heatstroke in your pet:

• Heavy panting or rapid breathing
• Lack of energy or weakness
• Dizziness or staggering
• Very red or pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased heart rate
• Excessive drooling
• Muscle tremors

If you suspect your pet suffers from heatstroke, immediately get them out of the hot environment and take them to the nearest veterinarian. Without treatment, heatstroke can be fatal.

Keep Fido and Fluffy Away from Toxic Plants 

Summer brings us beautiful flowers and plants to admire. However, some plants are toxic to dogs and cats and should always be kept out of paw’s reach, indoors or outdoors. For example, according to the Pet Poison Helpline, lilies are highly toxic to cats, as ingesting them can lead to kidney failure.

Tulips are also toxic, and if substantial amounts are ingested, it can lead to severe clinical signs, such as difficulty breathing and increased heart rate. Ingestion of rhododendron can lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse. There is a whole list of plants you want your pets to steer clear of.

Never Leave Pets in Hot Car

There are some scary dangers in leaving your pets in a parked car. The American Veterinary Medical Association advises that the temperature in your car can rise to lethal levels on a hot day. In just one hour, the temperature can go up 40 degrees higher than outside, and cracking the window will not help.

The prudent thing you can do for your pet if you need to run to the store and it is hot outside is to leave them at home. That way, you know they are safe in the cool air conditioning with plenty of water. Leaving your pet in a hot car is a crime in many states.

Protect Dog Paws from the Heat

Your dog has sensitive paws that can easily get burned or blistered. Check the pavement for five seconds. If you cannot tolerate the heat, your dog will not be able to either. There are also some adorable paw-protection booties, like Hipaw Summer Breathable Dog Boots. These special booties protect pups from hot surfaces.

Protection from Fleas and Ticks

Dogs and cats need protection from fleas and ticks. They can become flea infested if they encounter another fellow animal or pet with fleas. When they return home, fleas can get on bedding, furniture, and other surfaces. Some of the signs your pet has been infected with fleas:

• Scabbing or redness
• Scratching or itching
• Patches of hair loss
• Biting or chewing on the skin.

Ticks are another issue, and if your pet has a tick on them, there is a risk of them contracting Lyme disease. You must remove the tick immediately, or your pet can become sick. When removing the tick, use tweezers and pull it out straight, being careful not to leave the head or damage the tick.

Conclusion

You want to protect your dog or cat from any potential danger. Follow these tips to ensure you and your pets have a safe, happy, and healthy summer!

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