The Best Pet Care Practices for Summer
As the temperature rises and the sun shines brightly, it's important to take extra care of our furry friends to ensure they stay safe and healthy during the hot summer months. Just like us, pets can also suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses if proper precautions are not taken. To help you keep your pets cool and comfortable this summer, here are some of the best pet care practices to follow:
Hydration for Pets
One of the most important things to remember during the summer is to keep your pets well-hydrated. Ensure that your pets have access to fresh and clean water at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Dehydration can be a serious concern for pets in hot weather, so make sure to refill their water bowls regularly and consider investing in a pet fountain to encourage them to drink more.
Additionally, you can keep your pets hydrated by feeding them wet food or adding water to their dry food to increase their fluid intake. Always carry a portable water bowl and a bottle of water when you take your pets out for a walk or a hike to prevent them from becoming overheated and thirsty.
Sunscreen for Pets
Just like humans, pets can also get sunburned, especially those with short hair or light skin. To protect your pets from the harmful effects of the sun, apply pet-safe sunscreen to their ears, nose, belly, and any other areas with sparse fur. Avoid using sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, octinoxate, or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) as these ingredients can be toxic to pets if ingested.
Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for pets with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it 30 minutes before your pet goes outside. Reapply the sunscreen every 2-3 hours, or more frequently if your pet is swimming or sweating heavily. Remember to focus on areas that are more susceptible to sunburn, such as the tips of the ears and the nose.
Pet Exercise
While it's essential to keep your pets active and engaged, it's equally important to adjust their exercise routine to accommodate the hot weather. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day and opt for early morning or late evening walks when the temperatures are cooler. Asphalt and concrete can get extremely hot and burn your pet's paws, so stick to grassy areas or use protective booties to prevent injuries.
You can also engage your pets in indoor games and activities such as puzzle toys, fetch, or hide-and-seek to keep them mentally stimulated and physically active without exposing them to the heat. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise for pets, so if you have access to a pet-friendly pool or lake, let your furry friends take a dip to cool off and have fun.
Keeping Pets Cool
There are several ways to help your pets stay cool and comfortable during the summer. Provide them with a shaded area in your yard where they can escape the sun and relax. Consider setting up a pet-friendly cooling pad or bed for them to lie on, or create a DIY cooling station with a wet towel or a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel.
You can also keep your pets cool by grooming them regularly to remove excess fur and prevent matting. Brushing your pets' coat will help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of overheating. Just make sure not to shave your pets completely as their fur protects them from sunburn and regulates their body temperature.
Pet Wellness
During the summer, it's crucial to pay attention to any signs of heat-related illnesses in your pets. Watch out for symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or collapse, which could indicate heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cool place, offer them water to drink, and contact your veterinarian immediately for assistance.
Regular grooming and vet check-ups are essential for maintaining your pets' overall health and well-being. Schedule a visit to the vet for a summer wellness exam to ensure that your pets are up-to-date on their vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm medication. Your vet can also provide you with personalized advice on how to care for your specific pet breed and age during the summer.
Pet Care Tips
Here are some additional pet care tips to help you keep your furry friends safe and happy this summer:
- Avoid leaving your pets in parked cars, as the temperature inside a car can quickly reach dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked.
- Provide ample ventilation in your home if you need to leave your pets indoors, and consider using fans or air conditioning to keep them cool.
- Never walk your pets on hot pavement or sand, as their sensitive paw pads can get burned and blistered.
- Offer frozen treats or ice cubes for your pets to lick or chew on to help them cool down and stay hydrated.
- Monitor your pets for signs of heat stress during outdoor activities and take breaks in the shade to prevent overheating.
By following these pet care practices for summer, you can ensure that your furry friends stay safe, healthy, and happy throughout the hot months. Remember to keep an eye on your pets' behavior and well-being, and make adjustments to their care routine as needed to protect them from the heat. With proper hydration, sunscreen, exercise, and cooling methods, you can enjoy a fun and worry-free summer with your beloved pets by your side.