Ensuring Your Pet’s Safety During Summer: 5 Essential Tips
The summer season presents the perfect opportunity to relish the great outdoors with your furry companions. From playing fetch in the park to hiking scenic trails or simply lounging in the backyard, there’s no denying that pets adore spending time outside. However, amidst the sun and fun, potential dangers lurk with high temperatures and outdoor hazards like ticks and snakes. This article will highlight the 5 crucial summer safety tips you need to know to keep your furry friend safe and happy all season long.
- Hydration Is Key
In the summer months, keeping your pet well-hydrated is paramount to steer clear of dehydration and heat stroke. Always ensure a ready supply of fresh, clean water for your pets, especially when they venture outdoors. For a refreshing treat that keeps them cool and hydrated, consider freezing low-sodium broth or plain water into ice cubes.
- Shield Your Pet from the Sun
Just like humans, pets are susceptible to sunburn. To protect your pet from sunburn, limit their exposure to the sun during peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Invest in pet-safe sunscreen to apply to their nose, ears, belly, and other sun-exposed areas. Remember to use sunscreen specifically formulated for pets, as regular sunscreen can be toxic to animals.
- Watch Out for Hot Surfaces
As the temperature rises, hot concrete and asphalt can cause painful burns on your pet’s paws. Opt for cooler times of the day to walk your dog and avoid hot surfaces altogether. An easy way to test if the ground is too hot is by placing your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Check for Ticks
Summer brings a rise in ticks, which can carry diseases harmful to both pets and humans. After your pet spends time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, thoroughly check them for ticks. Pay special attention to their hairless areas like armpits, ears, and belly. If you find a tick, promptly remove it with tweezers and closely monitor your pet for any signs of illness.
- Keep Your Pet Away from Snakes
With summer’s warmth, snakes may become more active and pose a threat to your pet. Teach your pet to avoid snakes and keep them on a leash when hiking or in wooded areas. In the event of a snake bite, seek immediate veterinary attention.
In conclusion, summer can pose risks to your pets, but adhering to these 5 essential safety tips will ensure their well-being and happiness throughout the season. If you ever have concerns about your pet’s health or welfare, do not hesitate to reach out to us for advice and support. Remember, prevention is the key to safeguarding your furry friend this summer.