4 Things You Can Do to Protect Your Pet in the Summer

Let’s be honest, summer is not only fun for you – it can be a blast for your furry friend. Warm weather, splashing around in the water, getting outside and enjoying the fresh air. While you bask in the sun or celebrate the summer holiday, keep in mind these 4 tips to protect your pet in the summer months.

Summertime Sun and the HEAT

The sun can be rough on your furry friend so here are some things to make sure you do or consider on hot and humid days:

• Pavement can get scalding and hurt your pet’s paws. Try to schedule walks in the early morning or evening to help prevent your dog walking on the hot pavement.
• Help your pup cool down after any outdoor activity by adding ice cubes to their water or making these amazing DIY peanut butter popsicles for dogs.
• Unlike us, dogs can’t just remove their coat to cool off. Consider a summer cut, especially for thicker coat breeds. Do keep in mind that dogs with fair skin or little hair do need sun protection, just like people.

Just like humans, pets can also suffer from a heat stroke. Early warning signs of a heat stroke are excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, and weakness and balance problems. If the pet is not cooled down the symptoms will worsen with labored breathing, lethargy, and even seizures. If your pet experiences any of these signs, be sure to contact your veterinarian immediately.

Fireworks and Thunderstorms

We have all been there but did you know that 1 in 5 pets go missing due to being scared by loud noises? This summer, with all the celebrations, particularly around our country’s independence day, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep your dog on a leash or safely secured in your home.
• Reduce the noise level but running a fan or playing the TV to help block out some of the noise.
• Increase exercise on days you know fireworks will be used, this helps to tire your animal and increase serotonin levels.
• If you think your pet has a noise phobia, please talk to your veterinarian about possible solutions, including medication that can help relieve your pet of anxiety.

Pests and Poisons

In summer fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are everywhere, so be sure to talk to your veterinarian on the best preventives to use on your pet. Also, while taking walks with your pet watch out for yards that are sprayed with chemicals or insecticides. It is important to make sure that when you are doing yard work, keep your pet away from fertilizers and other poisonous substances. If you think your animal has consumed poison, take them to the emergency pet clinic.

Summertime is enjoyed by both humans and pets alike. As long as you take precautions to protect your pet in the summer heat, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer. If you have any questions or need to schedule a check – up, then contact Family Veterinary Clinic today.