Pets are just like children but with fur, as pet parents, we consider them our own babies and will do everything to protect them from any harm threatening their health and safety, as we do for our human kids. When it comes to the hot summer weather, pets spend more time outside and are more likely to get a heat stroke or other injury, unlike wild animals who are well adapted to the hot temperatures. Here comes our role as pet owners to put our pet safety on the top of our minds and take all the needed precautions for our precious furry friends. Pet Barn will give you 5 ways to keep your pet safe while enjoying summer activities with your best companion.
Problems with the Heat;
When the hot summer is upon us, we humans take every precaution to not get a heat stroke or any kind of sun damage by applying sunscreens protectors, and bug spray and if we are at the beach we make sure to always keep ourselves freshened up to bodies of water, we also keep our feet off the hot beach sand. When it comes to pets, unlike us they have limited ability to deal with and protect themselves from the heat. First let’s not forget that they have fur on their body so the only way they can release heat is through their paw pads, unlike humans who can sweat through all of the skin of their bodies.
Dehydration is the most dangerous problem that pets face during summer and hot weather. According to studies and veterinarians, pets with flat faces like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats are more likely to get heat stroke. Overweight, elderly, or heart and lung disease animals should be kept an eye on. Always make sure to put fresh cool water around the house so that your pet could have access to it, and avoid activities that require running during the hottest part of the summer days.
Ticks, Bugs, and Other Summer Insects;
Another problem during the summer is the appearance of ticks, stings, spiders, bugs, and all shapes and sizes of summer insects that come out of their hiding places during hot weather months. Bugs carry not only diseases but also cause problems for your pet’s health, they can be very dangerous for your pet. Mosquitoes and bees are always flying near pools of water that may bite your pet. If you have a garden and your pet plays in it, it’s always better to cut the grass short so it reduces the presence of insects. You should also keep an eye on your pet whenever you go for a walk in the park or places that could have fleas, ticks, bees, and other insects.
You could also ask your veterinarian about the best ways to protect your pet from those ticks and insects during the summer months.
Sunscreen Protector;
Walking your pet in the hot sunny weather can cause sunburns to pets, those with short fine hair and pink skin, and also pets that have been shaved, especially on body areas that are not protected by fur or dark skin. If you wish to spend time during a hot summer day with your pet (on the beach, pool, or any sunny place) please protect your pet with sunscreen, yes there are sunscreens for pets too, ask your veterinarian, and do not use human sunscreen or insect repellents that are not made specifically for animals, it could cause vomiting and other problems. Apply sunscreen on the paws, booty, and other needed areas routinely as part of the summer routine.
Water Safety;
It’s fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool so it could spend time with you, but make sure to keep a close eye on your pet when they approach the water. Water safety is all about thinking ahead, even if you think all dogs or cats can swim they could have trouble getting out of the pool, or have any other obstacles. If your pet drowns in the pool, keep him warm and dry with towels and take him to the veterinarian immediately.
Ear Infections;
If your pet is involved in water activities during summer, you should ask your veterinarian about special ear-cleaning products to protect and help from any ear infections. Ear infections are caused by water trapped in a dog’s ear after any water activity like swimming or bathing. Make sure to check your dog’s ears to prevent recurring ear infections.
Conclusion;
We all love summertime and summer activities and can’t wait to practice those activities with our best furry pet But hot weather can be very challenging and dangerous for pets. There are a lot of precautions that pet parents should consider and follow for their precious little paws’ health and safety. Pet Barn listed 5 top tips when the temperature gets extreme, how to take good care of your companion, and be prepared for the summer.
