Stay Safe in the Summer Heat: 5 Essential Tips
Summer presents an ideal chance to revel in the outdoors alongside your beloved pets. From frolicking in the park and exploring scenic trails to leisurely backyard lounging, your furry friends undoubtedly relish outdoor moments. Nevertheless, this season of sunshine and excitement can harbor potential dangers, including soaring temperatures and outdoor threats like ticks and snakes. In this article, we’ll cover the 5 indispensable summer safety tips to ensure your furry companion’s well-being and happiness throughout the entire season.
1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated
Throughout the summer season, maintaining your pet’s hydration becomes crucial to prevent dehydration and heat stroke. Always ensure an ample supply of fresh, clean water for your pets, especially when they’re enjoying outdoor activities. For an additional refreshing treat that aids in keeping them cool and hydrated, consider freezing low-sodium broth or plain water into ice cubes.
2. Protect Your Pet from the Sun
Just like humans, pets can get sunburned too. To prevent your pet from getting sunburned, limit their exposure to the sun during peak hours, usually between 10am and 4pm. You can also invest in pet-safe sunscreen to apply to their nose, ears, belly, and other areas exposed to the sun. Make sure the sunscreen is specifically formulated for pets, as regular sunscreen can be toxic to animals.
3. Avoid Hot Concrete and Asphalt
When temperatures rise, hot concrete and asphalt can cause painful burns on your pet’s paws. Opt for walking your dog during cooler parts of the day and steer clear of hot surfaces altogether. To test if the ground is too hot, place your hand on the pavement for seven seconds – if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.
4. Check Your Pet for Ticks
Ticks are common during the summer months and can carry diseases that can harm both pets and humans. Be sure to check your pet for ticks after they’ve spent time outside, especially if they’ve been in wooded or grassy areas. Please pay attention to the hairless areas on your pet’s body, including their armpits, ears, and belly. If you find a tick, remove it promptly with tweezers and monitor your pet for any signs of illness.
5. Keep Your Pet Away from Snakes
In the summertime, snakes tend to be more active and can pose a risk to your pet’s safety. It’s essential to train your pet to avoid snakes and to keep them on a leash while hiking or in wooded regions. In case of a snake bite, promptly seek veterinary attention without delay.
In summary, summer can present risks for your pets, but by adhering to these 5 crucial summer safety tips, you can ensure their safety and happiness throughout the entire season. If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health or well-being, feel free to reach out to us for advice and support. Remember, prevention is paramount, so take the essential measures to safeguard your furry companion this summer.