8 Tips to Ensure the Safety of Your Pet this Summer Season
Learn How to Create Safe & Memorable Summertime Moments with Your Furry Friends
Trips to the park, beach excursions, outdoor hikes, and leisurely neighborhood strolls all contribute to a delightful summer experience with your beloved pets. As a responsible pet parent, you’re accustomed to providing the everyday essentials like food, water, and affection.
However, as the temperatures rise, it’s important to consider additional care requirements for your animals.
Summertime Tips to Maintain the Well-being and Contentment of Your Beloved Four-legged Companions
Follow these guidelines to ensure a joyful and healthy summer season:
1. Keep your pet hydrated for optimal protection.
When venturing out in the sun, remember to bring an ample supply of fresh water for your pet and offer it to them regularly. A general rule of thumb is that if you feel thirsty, your pet is likely thirsty too. To make things easier, carry a collapsible water bowl or use a convenient dispenser that attaches to your water bottle.
2. Safeguard your pet’s well-being by feeding them appropriate foods.
Many foods commonly found at cookouts and gatherings can be hazardous to your pet’s health. While it may seem natural to give dogs bones, they can pose a choking hazard or lead to digestive issues. Ensure the safety of your pet by exclusively feeding them food formulated for their dietary needs.
Here’s a list of human foods and drinks that can be harmful to pets:
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Chocolate
- Coffee (and caffeine in general)
- Citrus
- Coconut/coconut oil
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia nuts (and nuts in general)
- Milk and dairy
- Onions
- Chives
- Raw or undercooked meat and eggs
- Bones
- Salt
- Salty snacks
- Xylitol (a sugar substitute)
- Yeast dough
3. Avoid exposing your pet to fireworks or sparklers.
Loud noises can disorient and stress animals, and there is a risk of injury. During celebrations, bring your pet indoors to keep them safe and prevent them from running away.
4. Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle.
Leaving an animal unattended in a vehicle can have severe consequences. It’s explicitly prohibited by law in eighteen states: Arizona, California, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia.
5. Exercise caution when your pet is near water.
Even if your pet is a proficient swimmer, always supervise them when they’re around pools, oceans, lakes, creeks, or rivers. At the beach, discourage them from drinking seawater and provide a shaded area for them to seek refuge from the sun and sand.
6. Protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces.
Be mindful of surface temperatures when walking on asphalt and concrete, as they can burn your pet’s paw pads. Additionally, since animals are closer to the ground, the heat reflected from these surfaces can quickly transfer to their bodies. Consider taking walks during the cooler hours of the early morning or late evening.
7. Be aware of the symptoms of overheating.
Familiarize yourself with the signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, rapid heart rate, weakness, drooling, and unusual behavior. If your pet shows signs of overheating, promptly move them to a cool area and spray their body with cool (not cold) water. Provide them with water to drink and gently wipe their face and muzzle. Remember, if you’re feeling hot and sweaty, your pet is likely experiencing the same.
8. Consider a veterinary checkup.
Schedule a routine visit to the vet to ensure your pet is in good health. Continuously administer non-toxic heartworm, tick, and flea prevention, especially if you plan on going camping or hiking. When traveling, remember to carry a copy of their vaccine and medical records, pet ID, and an extra collar.
9. Keep your pet bug free without using toxic chemicals.
Natural ingredients like those in Bug Zap Naturally deters all insects that feed on blood including fleas, ticks, biting flies, lice, mites, and mosquitoes.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furry companions have a safe, enjoyable, and healthy summer season filled with precious memories.
