Summertime Pet Protection: Keeping Your Pet Safe from the Sun
Everyone loves these early summer days, when we have the time to get outside for some outdoor recreation. Our pets are often the first to bound out the door with equal enthusiasm, spending time with us at the park, on the beach, hiking the trail, and even on those summer road trips. However, keeping your pet safe from the impact of those high humidity days is an essential facet of summertime fun.
Ten Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe During the Hottest Months
From increased exposure to fleas and ticks to painful sunburns, summertime can lead to pet perils when unprepared. Like anything, safety is dependent upon preparedness and awareness. Practice these ten tips to taking care of your pet during the summer sizzle.
- Skin care – Sunburns are painful and can increase the risk of skin cancer, the second most common form of cancer in pets. Help protect your pet from sunburn by applying a pet-safe sunscreen, such as Epi-Pet Sun Protector Spray and Doggles Pet Sunscreen.
- Hydration – Pets, especially flat-faced breeds, can easily become dehydrated. During the hottest days, leave several bowls of fresh, cool water around the home and in the yard (and, bring extra water for road trips or walks).
- Keep it cool – Bring outdoor pets inside when temperatures exceed 90 degrees, and maintain a cool indoor environment with air conditioning and/or fans, even if you leave.
- Exercise safely – Instead of attempting midday walks, runs, or outdoor time, switch your dog’s daily exercise time to first thing in the morning or when it cools off in the evening.
- Grooming – By keeping your pets, and especially long-haired pets, well-groomed, you help them stay cooler and free from matted fur, hot spots, and other skin and coat conditions.
- Shade – Whenever outdoors with your pet, make sure there are some shady places for water and rest breaks (including in the backyard, where many pets spend the most time).
- Ground temperature – Take care when out with your dog on sidewalks, since concrete and asphalt can burn sensitive paw pads. Check first by placing your palm on the ground surface.
- Parasite prevention – All of the creepy crawlies are at their peak during the warmer months. Make sure your pet is protected from dangerous parasites and avoidable illnesses by maintaining his or her parasite preventives. Call us to inquire, if your pet is not currently protected.
- Swimming safety – Whether on Lake Ontario or in the backyard pool, your canine needs to be supervised anytime around water. Not all dogs are excellent swimmers and can easily succumb to fatigue or accident. For extra protection, install a safety gate around the pool and invest in a doggie lifejacket, fitted especially for your best friend.
- Traveling – Long road trips with your pet companions require an extra level of diligence. Keep water on hand, ensure your pet is secure in the seat by using a special harness that can be affixed to a safety belt or opt for a carrier. And, of course, never leave your pet in a parked car, for any length of time, since temperatures can soar in a matter of minutes.
From all of us at Beverly Hills Veterinary Associates, Inc., we wish you and your fur friends a made-in-the-shade, fun-filled summer of adventure and enjoyment. If we can provide you with additional information to keep your pet summer-safe, or you would like to make an appointment, please give us a call.
Stay cool and enjoy!