Summer is here! Most pet owners enjoy spending quality time with their pets outside: taking on walks, playing in the park, cloud-gazing, etc. But, hold on! You have to pay attention to your pets’ limitations in the heat and take proper safety measurements.
Scroll down and find 13 tips for keeping your pets heat-safe and cool this summer.
13 Tips for Your Pets to Enjoy Summer Safely
Tip 1: Keep Track of the Temperature
You have to be mindful of the fact that not everyone has the same heat tolerance. Your furry companion doesn’t either. A dog’s body temperature is usually between 100 and 103 degrees Fahrenheit which causes them to feel much hotter than us in the surrounding air. If the temperature of your surroundings is above 76 degrees, you should definitely check up on your dog.
★ How to Know your Dog’s Heat Tolerance?
The main question is, “How hot is too hot for dogs?” It depends on the size, breed, age, and exercise levels. According to Dr. Becker, older, obese, short-nosed dogs such as pugs, boxers, Shih tzus, etc. are less likely to tolerate heat.
Tip 2: Never Leave Your Pet Alone in the Car
The car gets 20 degrees hotter than the air outside, even with cracked windows. If the temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the inside of the vehicle will be much hotter: 100 degrees, we mean! It can cause your dog to have a heatstroke. Parking under a shaded tree won’t help either. It applies to all pets.
Tip 3: Keep Your Pets Inside
It’s better to let your pets play inside during the warm days. It will help them remain cool and not get too heated.
Tip 4: Avoid Hot Surfaces
You are trying to keep your dog inside, but they won’t listen. You can try walking them on grass rather than on hot concrete pavements. The hot surfaces can scuff their little jellybean toes and cause heartburn.
Tip 5: Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen
Sunscreens are a great way to avoid burns, even if your pet walks in the heat. But it’s better not to take them on long walks.
Tip 6: Limit Exercises
Heavy exercises for long hours should be avoided. You think, “But I have a highly energetic dog!” Then, you can take a 30 to 40-minute break in between the play sessions so they can drink some water and stay cool.
Remember, dogs don’t know when to stop, so you must know when to stop!
You may also like: How to Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy
Tip 7: Don’t Shave
You think, “It will be a good idea to shave my dog. Overheating problems will be solved!”
Sorry to say, but no. It will cause your dog to get more sunburns because the fur helps protect their skin.
We understand your intentions were good; you didn’t know its problems. And it’s ok! That’s why we are always here for you.
Tip 8: An Early Vet Trip
Heat and the warm temperature usually cause our pets to get parasites: Ticks, Fleas, and Heartworms. So, make sure to take an early-summer trip to your vet for checkups and medication if not yet given.
Tip 9: Keep an Eye While Barbecuing
You may get carried away by all the fun you’re having at a barbecue party but keep an eye on your pet. Pets can sometimes be a naughty little devils. Many foods and beverages are dangerous for them, which they can eat if they are not paying attention.
Tip 10: Know the Ways to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer
Keeping pets cool in heatwaves should be every pet owner’s number one priority. You do not want your dog to have a heat stroke. But, you have no idea about what to do. Let us help by giving you 5 ways to keep your dogs cool this summer.
- Give them plenty of clean, cool water (not too cold) and always carry water bottles for walks.
- Arrange a small pool for your dogs to play in. It will help them exercise as well as stay cool.
- Pupsicles or watermelons can be a fantastic treat for your dog to enjoy.
- A cooling vest or a wet towel is an excellent way to keep your dogs cool. They can easily lay on the damp towel when they need to.
- Decrease the number of exercises. Choose a light workout for your dog and give them access to shade.
Tip 11: Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Dogs
Not knowing the signs can be a significant problem. It can lead to major health risks for your dogs.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion:
- Fast pulse rate
- Heavy panting and excessive drooling
- Not able to stand up
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Fainting
Tip 12: Know How to Handle Heat Exhaustion
If you notice any of the above symptoms, you shouldn’t waste more time!
- Take your pets to a shaded and cool area.
- Spread a damp towel over their head, neck, and chest, or pour water over their body.
- Let them drink some cold, freshwater or lick an ice cube.
- The most crucial step is to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Tip 13: Find the Best Time to Walk Dog in Summer
You see your dog missing their walks in the parks due to the heat and feel sad. Don’t be! Just because you can’t take them on their scheduled walks doesn’t mean you can’t.
Take them on walks early morning or late evening, like before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. The heat is not intense at this time, and your pup can enjoy its walk with you.
Summer Can Still Be Fun
Summer does last a while, and the temperature will get hotter. But that shouldn’t stop you or your pet from enjoying this warm weather. Have a fun pool party in your backyard, enjoy a swim in the lake, or relax!
But remember to look after your pet because they need care in this heat more than we.
If you want to know more tips similar to this, have a look at our site! You may find answers to all your questions. Enjoy the Summer!
