It’s officially summer! And you know what that means, right? The warmth of the sun, the fresh breeze, and the opportunity to spend more time with our furry friends outdoors - what could be more delightful? Whether it's a stroll in the park, a trip to the beach, or a fun game of fetch in the backyard, our beloved pets are the perfect companions to soak up the summer vibes with!
During the scorching summer days, it's not just us who suffer from the heat - our pets are equally affected too! Extreme heat can lead to discomfort and possible health hazards for our beloved pets. That's why it's crucial to take extra precautions during this time to ensure their safety and well-being.
Here are some tips on keeping your pet cool for the summer! 😎
Keep your furry friend hydrated!
As caring pet parents, we always want to make sure our beloved pets have plenty of energy to play, run around, and enjoy life to the fullest! And what better way to ensure their well-being than by making sure they have access to plenty of clean water? As one of the most important nutrients, water makes up a substantial portion of your pet's body weight, accounting for approximately 60 to 70 percent, and is vital for their survival. Factors that contribute to your pet’s water intake needs include their age, size, level of physical activity, diet, medication, environmental conditions, and more. It's essential to prioritize your pet's hydration all year round, especially during these upcoming sweltering summer months!
Water plays several vital roles in keeping your pet healthy! It moisturizes the air in their lungs, regulates their body temperature, lubricates their joints and organs, supports their nervous function systems, transports oxygen and essential nutrients throughout their body, and more. By providing your pet with a steady supply of clean, fresh water, you're not only helping them stay healthy, but you're also preventing dehydration-related health issues. Some signs of dehydration include panting, dry nose, or the appearance of sunken eyes.
If you decide to take your dog out, perhaps for a walk to the park or to the beach for playtime, be sure you are equipped with a water bottle or bowl for your furry friend to refresh themselves! You might even want to consider putting ice in their water bowls! With the sun shining and the temperatures rising, it's important to make sure your furry friend stays cool and hydrated this summer. So, be sure to keep their water bowl full and encourage them to drink up. A happy, hydrated pet is a healthy pet!
Look out for signs of heat stroke
We all love our furry friends and want them to be happy and healthy. But did you know that heatstroke can be a serious threat to their well-being? It’s actually more common than you might think!
Heatstroke is a dangerous, life-threatening condition. It is essentially when your pet’s body is unable to lose heat faster than its being generated or absorbed. When they are unable to reduce their body temperature, it can lead to a series of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, seizures, vomiting, loss of coordination, weakness, and more. In severe cases—or if left unchecked, heatstroke can even lead to the untimely demise of your furry friend. According to the Humane Society of the United States, pets that are elderly, overweight, have a heart or respiratory disease or are not used to prolonged exercises have an increased risk of developing heatstroke.
But fear not! There are steps you can take to protect your pet from the dangers of heatstroke. First and foremost, never leave them unattended in parked cars—regardless if the windows are rolled down— or other hot spaces. It's just not worth the risk. And if you suspect your pet may be suffering from heatstroke, act quickly! Get them to a vet as soon as possible, and in the meantime, offer them some water and move them into a cool, shady area to help keep them calm and comfortable.
By being proactive and taking these simple steps, you can help keep your furry friend safe and sound, even on the hottest of days. So enjoy the summer sunshine with your pet, but always keep an eye on their well-being. After all, they're counting on you to keep them healthy and happy!
Plan your outings!
Are you a pet owner who loves taking their furry friend out for a walk? Well, before you slip on your sneakers and grab the leash, make sure to check the weather forecast first! With technology at our fingertips, it has become much easier to keep track of hourly and up-to-the-minute weather forecasts in order to decide the most suitable time to take our furry friends out for some fresh air and outdoor activities! Taking this simple step allows for pet owners to plan the perfect adventure that will ensure their furry companions stay safe and comfortable—especially during hot and humid days!
Are you looking to take your furry friend out for a stroll or some exercise? Here's a tip: beat the heat and head out during the coolest parts of the day! Wake up early and enjoy the peaceful morning air, or wait until the sun starts to set for a cooler evening walk. It’s the wisest thing to do to avoid the blazing heat! The sun's rays can cause surfaces to heat up—such as the ground or sand—which may harm your pet's paws if exposed for prolonged periods. Remember, if it’s too hot for you, then it’s best to assume that it’s the same for your furry friend!
To avoid this and keep their little paws safe, consider carrying them or finding areas with grass or shaded spots along the way. Your pets will thank you for it, and you'll both have a much more enjoyable time outdoors!
Take them for a swim!
Summer is officially here, and it's time to make the most of the sunny days ahead! Swimming is one of the many ways that we cool ourselves down under the blazing summer sun, but did you know your pet can enjoy it as well? Swimming is a fantastic way for pets to stay cool and have some fun in the sun. It’s also a great way to keep them active as well! Whether it's a pet-friendly lake, pool, or the beach, your furry friend will love splashing and paddling around in the water while getting some exercise. So, why not include your furry friends in your summer plans and take them along with you to your next water adventure? Not only would it be exciting, but it would be a great bonding time as well!
However, there are some precautions. Wherever you choose to let your pet frolic around, ensuring their safety while they go for a swim is a top priority! Therefore, it is imperative to stay vigilant and keep a watchful eye on your furry friend, especially when they are in the water. For one, take the time to confirm that the depth of the water is appropriate for your pet's size and swimming ability. It's always better to be on the side of caution and opt for clear, clean areas where the water is shallow enough for your pet to wade in comfortably and still have fun! Taking these steps will give you peace of mind knowing that your pet is secure and having a blast while they enjoy the refreshing waters! This way, you can relax and enjoy your time at the beach or pool without feeling overly concerned.
If taking your pet to the beach, ensure the sand isn't too hot for them to walk on. Additionally, try to prevent them from drinking salt water as much as possible. It can cause your pet to become dehydrated or experience diarrhea or vomiting caused by the presence of any bacteria or algae. The American Kennel Club states that excessive consumption of salt water can disrupt your pet's fluid balance, leading to a mortality rate of over 50% (in dogs with toxic levels of sodium in their system), even with treatment. It's therefore advisable to always be prepared and pack essentials such as a leash, towel, and plenty of fresh water for your pet to drink!
If swimming is not an option, there are other ways your pet can have fun from home, such as having them run through the sprinklers, using the hose, or splashing in kiddie pools!
Keep them appropriately groomed
A great way to make sure your pet is cool and comfortable during the summer heat is by keeping up with their regular grooming. If their fur is matted, it can trap heat and moisture close to their skin which can increase their risk of heat exhaustion
If you're thinking of giving your furry friend a summer haircut, hold up before grabbing those clippers! Did you know that their fur helps to keep them cool in the hot weather? While it may seem logical that shaving them down would help keep them cool from the scorching heat, their coat is designed to regulate their body temperature and has a natural cooling system that keeps them from overheating in the summer! When this system is disrupted by cutting or shaving their fur, you could be putting your furry friend at risk for various issues such as sunburn, skin cancer, or general discomfort.
Instead, you should regularly brush your pet’s coat often in order to get rid of excess hair and dead skin. This allows for air to circulate freely throughout their fur, while also keeping it clean and free of knots. Always consult a veterinarian or professional groomer if you have any inquiries!
DIY "Pupsicles"/"Catsicles"
As we know, the summer heat can be tough on our furry friends—so why not keep them cool with some homemade frozen treats? In a fun twist, you can easily create chilled or frozen treats for your furry best friend right at home! Not only do they taste great and keep your pet hydrated, but they can also provide entertainment and stimulation to prevent boredom during hot days. A fun idea is to freeze some of your pet's favorite toys, like chew toys or a Kong toy—typically filled with your dog or cat’s favorite food or treat! Not only does it keep them occupied, but it's a great way to burn excess energy! You can even purchase toys that are designed specifically for freezing.
Another option is to make your own frozen treats! For instance, you can freeze low-sodium chicken or beef broth in an ice cube tray—or any mold of your choosing—and give it to them to enjoy! To help with hydration, you can freeze fruits and vegetables that have high-water content, such as apples, watermelons, cucumbers, celery, or even carrots! However, be sure to remove all seeds and/or pits as they are toxic for them to consume. Use different types of mold to make it fun and interesting such as a paw or bone-shaped mold!
There are plenty of popular “Pupsicles” and “Catsicles” recipes that you can find online for your furry friend to enjoy! If you plan on whipping up your own concoction, be sure that the ingredients are safe for your pet to consume—otherwise, consult a veterinarian if you are unsure.
So why not give it a try and see how your furry friend reacts? Trust us, they'll be wagging their tails in approval!
