Summer is just days away and it is already, hot, hot, hot outside. As adults, (and human beings) we have a little more control over how we take care of ourselves while hanging out in the heat, but what about your fur babies? Your pets can’t speak for themselves, so it is important for us to know how to keep them safe this summer. Now, I am not a veterinarian, but I have done my research and I put together a quick list of things to remember while having fun in the sun with your four-legged friend!
1. Never leave your pet in a hot car
I think we can all agree when a driver is “running inside real quick” and takes the keys with them and it’s hot out, that sitting in the car with no air conditioning is absolutely awful. Your pet feels the same way, but they just can’t tell you! According to The Humane Society, on a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. On an 85-degree day, for example, the temperature inside a car with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach 120 degrees. Your pet may suffer irreversible organ damage or die. If you notice a pet inside of a hot car this summer take down the vehicles description and license plate number and contact the non-emergency line for your local police department.
2. Microchip your pet
According to Dog Geek, 1 in 3 pets will be lost at some point in their life and fireworks can cause a 30 percent increase in pet runaways. I know we love to take our furry best friends to all of the fun summer outdoor events, and that is okay, but if you choose to do so make sure that they have been microchipped! Only 17 percent of dogs and 2 percent of cats find their homes if they aren’t microchipped and 94 percent of lost pets that have been are successfully reunited with their families. If your pet is lost please contact your local animal shelter.
3. Walk this way!
Going on a walk is a great way for you and your pet to be/stay in puuurfect shape this summer However, being outside in heat isn’t always the best thing for your pet, so make sure you are prepare:
- Summer is pest season! Keep an eye out for ticks, mosquitoes! Ask your vet to recommend a proper preventative if you aren’t already using one.
- Make sure you are using a good-quality leash and to bring a portable water bowl.
- Use the “five second rule” to check and see how hot the asphalt/concrete is! If you can’t comfortably leave the back of your hand on the ground for more than five seconds then it is too hot for pet paws!
- Keep an eye on the humidity and temperature, and limit exercise to mornings and evenings when it is cooler out.
- Pets can get sunburn too! Make sure to put sunscreen on skin that isn’t covered by hair or fur to avoid sunburn!
4. Keep pets cool and hydrated
70 to 80 percent of your pets body mass is water and losing 10 percent of its body fluid can make them ill. Always make sure to have water available for your pet to drink, access to a shaded area or air conditioning to avoid heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke are, but aren’t limited to:
- Excessive panting (dogs don’t perspire so panting is one of the ways they dispel heat)
- Body temp of 104-110
- Dark or bright red tongue and gums
- Dry or Sticky Gums
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rapid Heartbeat
If your pet is exhibiting signs of heat stroke contact your vet immediately.
5. Vacationing? Plan Pet Care!
If you are traveling with your pet it is important that they are up to date on all of their vaccinations. Carry a copy of their medical records in the event that there is medical emergency. Also, when traveling with your pet in the car make sure they secured in an appropriate sized pet carrier or seat belt harness to protect you and your pet from injury!
For more information on pet safety visit the sites mentioned above or contact your local pet care professional! Have a tail-waggin’ good summer!
