Stay Safe in the Summer Heat: Implement These 5 Tips
The summer season presents an ideal chance to relish the great outdoors alongside your beloved furry companions. Be it playing fetch in the park, embarking on scenic hikes, or simply basking in your backyard, there’s no denying that pets thoroughly enjoy their time outside. Nonetheless, this season of sun and merriment can also pose risks to your pets, with soaring temperatures and potential outdoor hazards like ticks and snakes. In this article, we’ll delve into the five crucial summer safety tips you must be aware of to ensure your furry friend’s safety and happiness throughout the entire season.
1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated
During the summer months, keeping your pet hydrated is essential to avoid dehydration and heat stroke. Make sure to always provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your pets, especially when they’re spending time outside. You can also freeze ice cubes made from low-sodium broth or plain water to give your pets a refreshing treat that will help keep them cool and hydrated.
2. Protect Your Pet from the Sun
Just like humans, pets can get sunburned too. To prevent your pet from getting sunburned, limit their exposure to the sun during peak hours, usually between 10am and 4pm. You can also invest in pet-safe sunscreen to apply to their nose, ears, belly, and other areas exposed to the sun. Make sure the sunscreen is specifically formulated for pets, as regular sunscreen can be toxic to animals.
3. Avoid Hot Concrete and Asphalt
Rising temperatures can make concrete and asphalt scorching hot, posing a risk of burning your pet’s delicate paws. To safeguard your furry friend, aim to walk your dog during cooler parts of the day and steer clear of hot surfaces entirely. A simple way to assess the ground’s temperature is by placing your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it feels too hot for your hand, it’s undoubtedly too hot for your dog’s paws. Prioritizing these precautions will ensure your pet’s paws stay safe and comfortable during hot weather.
4. Check Your Pet for Ticks
Ticks are common during the summer months and can carry diseases that can harm both pets and humans. Be sure to check your pet for ticks after they’ve spent time outside, especially if they’ve been in wooded or grassy areas. Please pay attention to the hairless areas on your pet’s body, including their armpits, ears, and belly. If you find a tick, remove it promptly with tweezers and monitor your pet for any signs of illness.
5. Keep Your Pet Away from Snakes
In the summertime, snakes tend to be more active, which can pose a risk to your pet’s safety. It’s essential to train your pet to avoid snakes and to keep them on a leash when you’re hiking or in wooded areas. If, unfortunately, your pet gets bitten by a snake, seek immediate veterinary attention without delay. Taking these precautions will help protect your furry companion from potential snake encounters and ensure their well-being throughout the summer.
In conclusion, summer brings potential hazards for our beloved pets, but with adherence to these 5 crucial summer safety tips, you can ensure their safety and happiness throughout the season. Should you ever have any worries about your pet’s health or well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance and assistance. Remember, prevention is paramount, so take the necessary measures to safeguard your furry friend during this summer season. Your proactive efforts will undoubtedly lead to a safe and enjoyable summer for both you and your beloved companion.