Things Every Pet Owner Should Know For Summer

Summertime temperatures, humidity, parked cars, jogging, beaches, swimming pools, and ticks can be hazardous to your pet’s health. Make sure to keep these few important things in mind while out and about with your pet.

Heat: The temperature inside a car can shoot up to dangerous levels within minutes (120 degrees or higher) even if you park in the shade with the windows down and there's a breeze blowing. Unlike humans, pets cannot perspire to cool themselves. The movement of air into and out of the lungs allows them to maintain their normal body temperature. Panting and salivation are outward signs that your pet may be overheating. Heatstroke results when humidity and temperature exceed the point at which these cooling mechanisms can maintain body temperature, which can lead to permanent brain damage or even death. Don't take chances with your pet’s life – leave them at home if you will be away from the car for extended periods!

Shelter: When you leave your pet at home, remember that a house can heat up as quickly as a car. If you can, leave your air conditioning on at the same temperature that you would be comfortable in. When it's really hot, the shade from a tree will not keep your pet cool enough. Pets that stay outside need a doghouse or other shelter to protect them from the heat. Remember also that dogs and cats can get sunburned just like people. Their ears and noses, which are not protected by thick fur, are especially susceptible.

Water: Make sure your pet always has access to cool, clean water, especially in the summer heat. Refill overturned bowls and freshen water. You might also consider digging a small hole to stabilize a water dish. While traveling in the car make sure to have your portable water bowl and container.

Beach and Pool: If you take your pet to the beach, be sure to provide ample shade and rinse or hose them down after they have swum in salt water. Protect your pet’s feet from the hot sand or pavement. Dog's and cat's foot pads are very sensitive to heat and can easily blister. While many pets love to swim, chlorinated water can irritate your pet’s eyes. Heat and sunlight around a pool are also intense. Never leave your pet unattended around a pool. If they enter the pool they may not be able to get out on their own, which could cause panic or drowning.

Ticks and Fleas: Carefully go over your pet’s body at least once a week to check for fleas, ear mites, and tiny bumps or cuts. Bring your pet to the vet for a spring/summer check-up and have them recommend a flea and tick repellant that works well in your area. This can also come in the form of a dietary supplement, a powder, or a spray. Make sure to remove ticks promptly and safely.
Hair is a natural insulator in either warm or cool weather. In the summer an animal's coat insulates against sun, heat, and insect bites. Regular brushing removes dirt and loose undercoat, which both cleans and cools your pet. When you brush your pet, check around the ears, between toes, along the legs, at the lower abdomen, and at the base of the tail, which are places often missed while grooming.

Exercise: During exercise, a dog’s body temperature rises faster than excess heat can be dissipated. In the summer exercise of any kind should be cut back and limited to the cooler, early morning or later evening hours. Always try to avoid running through tall grasses as this can scratch your pet’s eyes. Also be sure to check your pet for burs or ticks and be aware of the danger posed by local snake species. Consult your veterinarian for proper snake bite precautions and first aid procedures.

Riley says “Be Kind to Pets!”