Summer Pet Safety Tips: Keeping Pets Cool And Hydrated
The warmer temperatures are on their way so naturally, we’ll be spending more time outside with our pets. As temperatures rise, many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors with our pets. Summer is a great season for pets, whether you’re planning long walks, or simply chilling out in the garden. Remember that warmer weather can also bring along risks for bet owners to be aware of. Here at Valley Vet Care, we’ve put together our summer pet safety tips! We’ll explain how you can keep your fur babies cool and hydrated throughout the season. Let’s get into it.
Why Summer Pet Safety Matters
Our pets can struggle to keep their body temperature steady in hot weather. This means they can be vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Unlike us humans, dogs and cats don’t sweat efficiently. They’re more likely to overheat.
Making sure you follow our summer pet safety tips can help reduce the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, sunburn, and more summer pet health concerns.
Summer Pet Safety Tips for Keeping Pets Cool
When it comes to summer pet safety tips, we can’t stress enough how important it is to make sure your pet has plenty of opportunities to stay cool.
Provide Shade At All Times
When you’re outdoors, your pet should always have access to a shaded area. Trees, covered patios, and pet shelters can get them out of the direct sunlight. Obviously, the sun moves throughout the day, so be sure to check that shaded areas stay put.
Avoid Walking During Peak Heat
Hot pavements for the high temperatures can be very dangerous for pets. If you’re walking your dogs, make sure it’s early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
The five-second rule is a good way to test the pavement before your walk. All you need to do is put the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Create Cool Resting Areas
Indoor rooms should be kept well-ventilated in the heat. Things like cooling mats, damp towels, and tiled floors can be comfortable places for pets to rest in warm weather.
Summer Pet Safety Tips For Hydration
Keeping your pets hydrated is so important to keep them healthy during summer.
Constant Access To Fresh Water
It might sound simple, but one of our biggest summer pet safety tips is to have fresh, clean water down at all times. Water bowls should be checked regularly and refilled throughout the day.
If you’re heading out for the day, bring a water bottle and travel bowl for your pet. It’s an easy way to offer water during walks and outings.
Add Moisture To Meals
Sometimes adding water to dry food or offering wet food can help increase your pet’s fluid intake. This can benefit cats, they’re usually less likely to drink enough water on their own.
Watch For Signs Of Dehydration
When you’re aware of the signs of dehydration, you can act quickly if your pet seems unwell. Common symptoms include:
- Excessive panting
- Dry gums
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Sunken eyes
- Reduced skin elasticity
If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet for more advice.
Recognising Heatstroke In Pets
With the rest of our summer pet safety tips, understanding heatstroke is another big one.
Heatstroke is a serious and it can actually be life-threatening. Dogs with flat faces, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, as well as older pets and those with other health conditions, can be at a bigger risk.
Symptoms of heatstroke include:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Bright red gums
- Weakness or collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Confusion or disorientation
If you think your pet might be suffering with heatstroke, move them to a cool area immediately. Make sure you offer small amounts of water and go to your vet as soon as possible.
Summer Pet Safety Tips For Car Travel
Some summer adventures might involve a car journey for you and your pets. However, cars can quickly become dangerous in warm weather.
Even when the temperature may be mild, heat inside a parked car can rise dramatically within minutes. If you leave your pet unattended in a car, it can lead to heatstroke and other serious health complications.
One of our biggest summer pet safety tips is to never leave your pet alone in a parked car. It doesn’t matter if the windows are slightly open.
When travelling, ensure your pet has access to water and take regular breaks during longer journeys.
Protecting Pets From Sunburn
You might not know it, but pets can suffer from sunburn too. Animals with light-coloured fur, thin coats, or exposed skin are particularly vulnerable.
Try to limit their sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day. Ask your vet about pet-safe sun protection if you need. Never use human sunscreen on pets unless your vet has approved it.
Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer With Valley Vet Care’s Summer Pet Safety Tips
Summer is the perfect time to make memories with your pet, but safety is priority. Our practical summer pet safety tips can help you keep your pet cool, hydrated, and comfortable throughout the warmer months.
If you have any concerns or need any advice about your pet’s health during hot weather, the team at Valley Vet Care is always here to help. Contact us today on 01706 656559.
