Tour
Summer is here, and while you may be anxious to spend as much time outdoors as possible, it’s important to remember safety.
It’s been a while since your body has been exposed to the harsh rays and heat of the sun, so be sure to allow yourself to acclimatize slowly.
The same goes for your pets, who also need ample time to adjust to the heat and humidity. Since pets are at a greater risk for heatstroke than we are, it’s important to carefully watch your pet for signs of overheating and over-exposure.
Here are our best tips to protect your pets this summer.
Always have fresh water with you
You’ve heard the saying, “If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.”
But you can’t keep them cooped up all day long, especially if the weather is beautiful outside!
If you’re walking your dog or bringing them along with you on a hike this summer, be sure to bring lots of fresh water.
- Bring a portable water bowl or bottle
- Put ice cubes in the water to keep it cool throughout the day
And remember to take lots of breaks in the shade for them to drink and rest.
Keep your pets cool when you run errands
Pets are members of the family, and sometimes you may like to bring them along while you run errands. But the summer heat is dangerous for pets to be exposed to or too long.
To help them feel comfortable and keep them from overheating, use a cooling vest or cooling bandanas if you’re going to be out for a longer period of time.
Never, ever leave your pet in your car on a hot day
It may seem convenient to leave your pet in the car while you run your errands, but this is extremely dangerous!
The temperature inside a vehicle is always higher than the outside temperature, and the inside temperature can rise to 40° C within an hour.
Your safest bet is to just leave your pet at home.
How to tell if your pet is experiencing heatstroke
If your pet feels a tad warm, but are unsure if he or she is experiencing a heatstroke, these tips will help:
- Bring your pet to a shaded or air-conditioned area
- Run mildly cool water over your pet or use wet towels, focusing on the armpits, groin, and head
- Offer ice chips or fresh water – if your pet won’t drink, seek immediate veterinary care
Need more tips?
Practicing a few precautions will help you and your beloved pet safely enjoy the outdoors.
If you need more tips, contact us or visit our store!
