Summer is right around the corner, and while with great fun, comes great responsibility. Though summer is the perfect time to relax, suntan, and let loose, remember that your pets still need to
keep safe. Although you may know how to stay safe during the summer, your furry friends can’t do that themselves.
1. Proper Sun Safety
Just like humans, pets can succumb to the dangers of the sun, such as heat stroke and
sunburn. It’s important to recognize the symptoms and get help early on, before their condition
declines. Some symptoms of heat stroke include, heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive
drooling, bright red gums and tongue, etc. There are many ways to prevent your animal from
being affected. Some include providing your dog with a substantial amount of water and shade,
avoiding hot surfaces, and limiting their exercise. To prevent sunburn in animals apply a
pet-safe, waterproof sunscreen at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapply frequently.
Make sure to limit their sun exposure as much as possible or provide adequate shading.
2. Walking Your Pet
Walking our pets is great exercise not only for us, but also for them. It is imperative for
our pets to stay exercising and healthy during the summer. However, you may find it
hard to will yourself to walk in the summer heat and your pet also might not agree. Just
like us, our pets don’t want to break a sweat during our walks. To avoid overheating your
pet, take them out during the cooler hours of the day. This allows pavement to cool down
and not burn your pets feet and allows the nice, evening (or morning) breeze to roll
through. If the pavement is still too hot, walk your pet in a grassy area or on a dirt trail.
3. Water
Although it is the simplest concept, water is the most important key factor to keeping
your pet safe this summer. Due to the heat, your pets exhaust faster and lose their water
balance a lot quicker. With kids running around during the summer, your pets may want
to also run around outside or enjoy the nicer weather. Make sure to keep their water
bowls filled to the brim so they can get a sip any time they feel parched.
Summer is sun-sational. Kids running around during summer break, suns out, perfect
beach weather. Although it is important to let our pets interact the most they can and
have their own fun during these months, their safety is of utmost importance, especially
due to the harsh conditions summer brings us. Remember to accommodate your pet this
summer to help keep them safe and healthy.
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