How To Keep Your Pet Safe During the Summer

Summer is here! With all the outdoor festivities on the rise, it is important for you to understand how to care for your pet. While summer brings more opportunities for you and your pet to bond outside, the hot weather can bring a lot of danger to your furry friend too. But, don’t sweat it (get it?)! We have all the tips and tricks for you and your best friend to enjoy the summer together!

Be Aware

Just like humans, pets are susceptible to heat stroke and overheating. It’s crucial to understand the signs and symptoms telling you that your pet is too hot. A dog’s normal body temperature ranges between 100 and 103 degrees Fahrenheit. A cat’s normal body temperature ranges between 100.4 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything higher can be dangerous for your pet. Keep in mind, our pets don’t sweat or have the same abilities that we as humans do to help regulate our body temperature. Some possible signs of overheating are:

• Heavy panting
• Dry or bright red gums
• Thick drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Wobbly legs or trouble walking

If you think your pet is showing signs of overheating, move them inside or to a cool place. Give them plenty of water to drink and wrapping their bodies in a cold towel can help. However, do not place them into cold water, as this can put them into shock. If your pet is still showing signs of heat stroke, give your local vet a call or if you’re in Idaho contact us.

Never Leave Your Pet In the Car

Many pets love to go in the car, however, never leave your pet in a hot car. It may seem like a quick run into the grocery store, but pets can develop heat stroke within 10 minutes of being left. Not only can cars be dangerous for your pet, but they can also be illegal. In 16 states, leaving your pet in a hot car could leave you with a hefty fine and potential charges of animal abuse. It may seem like a good idea at the time, but just to be safe, keep your pets at home — they’ll still love you.

Be Mindful When Walking Your Pet

If you have a dog (or cat) that enjoys outdoor walks, make sure that you are mindful about the hours that you are walking them. Often we neglect to think of the terrain that our pets are walking on. Most of the time that terrain is asphalt or concrete, and these substances can become hot very quickly and can hurt your pet’s paws. Avoid walking your pet during mid-morning-afternoon, when the sun is at its highest. Mornings and evenings are great times to walk your pet, it’ll be cooler and overall more enjoyable for everyone. Be mindful of metal surfaces as well, these can be even hotter and burn the bottom of your pet’s paws.

Here at Sun Valley Animal Center, we believe in providing the best care for your pet. Pets are an extension of your family and we treat them as such. If you have any questions about animal care, animal boarding, or want to schedule a visit with us, contact us here.