8 Summer Safety Tips for Pets

As the temperature rises with the arrival of summer, it is important to ensure the comfort and safety of your pets. Warm weather can pose a danger to our furry companions, as they struggle to regulate their body temperature. It is crucial to take extra care of your pets during hot weather conditions.

Here are some important tips to ensure the safety of your pets during summer:

1. Never leave your pet in a hot car. The temperature inside a car can increase drastically within minutes, which can lead to heatstroke and suffocation. It is best to leave your pets at home on warm days, and if necessary to travel with them, ensure that they have access to water.

2. Protect your pet's paws from hot surfaces such as asphalt and metal. Walking on hot surfaces can burn their paws and increase body temperature. If surfaces feel hot to the back of your hand, they are too hot for a pet to walk on.

3. Provide plenty of water and shade. If you are out with your pet for an extended period, ensure that they have access to water to avoid dehydration. Try to keep your pet in the shade as much as possible to avoid direct sun exposure.

4. Talk to your groomer to see if a haircut is right for your pet. For some breeds, a haircut can prevent sunburn and keep them cool.

5. Protect your cat from sunburn. Yes, cats can get sunburned too! White cats, hairless cats, and cats with thin fur are especially susceptible to sunburn. Consider installing UV-blocking films on your windows to help block out some of those harmful rays.

5. Keep windows screened to prevent cats from falling out while enjoying the view.

6. Be cautious with food and drinks during backyard barbeques, as certain foods like grapes, onions, and chocolate can be harmful to pets. Keep alcohol away from pets as it can be poisonous to them. 

7. Keep your pets away from fireworks. Not only are the loud noises frightening and unsettling to pets, but they also contain harmful chemicals and can lead to injuries and burns if your pets get too close. 

8. Summer can be an enjoyable time for pets and their owners, as long as their safety and comfort are prioritized. If you have any questions about keeping your pets safe this summer or want to schedule a visit, call us at (269) 422-1176.