Keeping your pet cool:

Sure, the summer months and even Indian summers bring sunshine and often times, sweltering heat but when it comes to your Fido or feline, it’s not always a walk in the park.

For instance, dogs and cats may suffer from heat exhaustion just as humans, as well as sunburn and even dehydration. There are several ways however to keep your pet cool during the sweltering summer months. In addition, these rules shouldn’t be applied only because it’s one hundred degrees out plus humidity, rather in days where the sun may not seem strong or the temperatures are not so high, the rules are still important to follow since your cat or dog may easily overheat as well.

For instance, for summer pet care your veterinarian should have already done a check-up for heartworm for your dog. It’s a wise recommendation to be on year-round preventative medicine as well as an effective flea and tick program to prevent them from infesting.

Next and most obvious, never ever leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. This can be fatal! Yes, fatal! Cracking the windows open do not have a positive impact and will absolutely not keep your pet cool. Your car or mini-van may quickly become an inferno and keep in mind that parking in the shade does not have a positive lasting effect since the sun will shift throughout the day. As for the amicable solution? Leave your pet at home!

Just as you would hydrate frequently during the day, so should your pet. This helps keep your pet cool and keeps him or her healthy. It’s important to bring a thermos with cold water when your pet is your traveling companion.

As for exercise, just as you would not decide to go for a jog at noon in the middle of the sweltering heat, the same applies to your pet. It’s best for them to get exercise early in the morning or in the evening thereby avoiding the sun’s scorching rays along with the hottest temps of the day.

On the same token, when it’s this hot it’s important to not let your dog stand on hot asphalt. Your pet may heat up extremely quickly and sadly their sensitive paws may burn easily. Walks should be kept to an absolute minimum during this time. When in doubt, summer pet care says if you wouldn’t want to go outside for a walk chances are your dog wouldn’t either.

As for the beach, think again. While it may be fun for you to have your pet around – after all he/she is part of the family – summer pet care means you’re better off leaving them at home. It’s very difficult to find a shady area with an ample supply of fresh water. Plus, the sand itself may get scorching hot itself.

If your dog must be outside and is an outdoor pet, during summer pet care months constantly provide water and ensure they’re located in the shade such as a sturdy dog house. Even if your pet is an outdoor pet, don’t be hesitant to bring them inside to keep your pet cool.

Summer pet care also incorporates watching older pets as well as overweight pets. They may be more susceptible to health issues when the weather is unbearable.

Regarding sunscreen and insect repellent, definitely steer clear from using human products unless it specifically states it’s okay to use on animals.

Lastly, when keeping your pet cool and safe, it’s important to be aware. Look for signs of overheat and exhaustion in your pet – signs will include panting, drooling, and a higher temperature.