Beat the Summer Heat With These 5 Safety Tips for Your Furry Friends
Summertime is an ideal season to relish the outdoors with your beloved furry companions. Whether it’s a game of fetch in the park, a scenic hike, or simply lounging in the backyard, our pets adore spending time outside as much as we do. Nonetheless, the season of sun and fun also brings potential dangers, such as high temperatures and outdoor hazards like ticks and snakes. To ensure your furry friend stays safe and content all summer long, Animal House Veterinary Center presents the five essential summer safety tips you must know.
1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated
In the scorching summer months, adequate hydration is crucial to prevent dehydration and heatstroke in pets. Always provide an ample supply of fresh, clean water for your furry pals, especially when they’re outdoors. A helpful trick to keep them cool and hydrated is freezing low-sodium broth or plain water into ice cubes, serving as a refreshing treat.
2. Protect Your Pet from the Sun
Pets, much like humans, are susceptible to sunburns. To shield your furry friends from harmful sun rays, limit their exposure during peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm. You can also invest in pet-safe sunscreen specifically formulated for their sensitive skin. Remember that regular sunscreen intended for humans can be toxic to animals.
3. Avoid Hot Concrete and Asphalt
As temperatures rise, concrete and asphalt surfaces can become scorching hot and burn your pet’s paws. Opt to walk your dog during cooler times of the day, and steer clear of hot surfaces altogether. A quick test to check if the ground is too hot is placing 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 more active during the summer and can carry harmful diseases that affect both pets and humans. After spending time outside, especially in wooded or grassy areas, carefully inspect your pet for ticks. Pay close attention to hairless areas on their body, such as their armpits, ears, and belly. If you discover a tick, promptly remove it with tweezers and monitor your pet for any signs of illness.
5. Keep Your Pet Away from Snakes
Summer brings increased snake activity, posing a potential threat to your pets. Teach them to avoid snakes and always keep them on a leash while hiking or in wooded areas. If your pet is bitten by a snake, seek immediate veterinary attention.
In conclusion, summer can present dangers for our beloved pets, but with these five essential safety tips, you can ensure their well-being and happiness throughout the season. Should you ever be concerned about your pet’s health or need advice and support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Animal House Veterinary Center. Remember, prevention is key, so take the necessary steps to protect your furry friend this summer.