Tips for keeping your pets safe from the heat

We want to keep our pets safe in hot weather. We want to enjoy summertime with our pets. And what is better than a day at the beach, soaking up the sun and playing fetch? But don’t be too eager to spend too much time in hot weather with your fur-baby, as it could be quite dangerous. These tips on keeping your pets safe in hot weather are necessary precautions to take to ensure your pet will not overheat.

Keep pets from overheating

Firstly, never leave your animals alone in a parked car. This can cause heat stroke. And, you are sure to experience many angry humans if they see this happen. It is illegal in many states to leave your pet alone in a hot car.

Secondly, just like us humans, your pet can get dehydrated quickly in hot weather, so plan ahead. Bring plenty of fresh, clean water with you on walks and outings when it’s hot or humid outside. Take breaks in the shade to get out of the sun and try not to wear them out with too much exercise. Keep your pets indoors when it’s extremely hot. If a heat advisory is in effect, it is just as dangerous for them as it is for you.

Thirdly, it is important that you know the signs of overheating. For pets, this can include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart rate, drooling, weakness, lethargy or collapsing. Overheating can cause serious symptoms. For example, your pet could suffer from seizures, diarrhea and vomiting.

On a side note, animals that are older, overweight, or have heart or lung disease should be kept cool in the air-conditioning as much as possible. They have a hard time panting and catching their breath.

Fourthly, keep your pet groomed. Trim their hair or fur, but never shave your dog. Dogs need their coat to protect them from the sun. Dogs can sunburn and overheat without it. Be sure to brush your cats often, as this can prevent problems caused by the hot weather.

Not all summer fun is for our furry friends

Safety in the hot weather is not just about the sun and heat. Be aware of the surfaces your pets are walking on. Imagine walking on hot asphalt with no shoes! Ouch! A dog’s sensitive paw pads can burn.

Keep walks on really hot days short and infrequent. And reward them with cold water when you return. 

Remember that foods you eat at barbeques may be poisonous or harmful to your pet. So check before you let them eat up! Always avoid raisins, grapes, onions, and chocolate. Contact animal poison control if you think they may have eaten something they ought not have.

Pets and Fourth of July celebrations don’t mix. Never use fireworks around pets. Exposure to lit or even unlit explosives can be hazardous. Also, many pets are fearful of loud noises and can get scared. You don;t want your pet to run off, disoriented, and get lost. So, keep your pets safe from the noise and fire in a comfortable quiet place. 

For other ways to care for your pets visit the ASPCA website.

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