Pet Safety Tips for Summer!

Water, water everywhere, and lots of it to drink!

Leaving your pet without water at any time is dangerous, but it's especially risky on hot summer days. Whether your pets live indoors or out, they need to stay hydrated, and constant free access to water will help them do so. Never leave your pets without water for any length of time, and always bring water with you on long walks or car trips.

Be a shady character

Provide shade for your pets if they'll be spending time out of doors. Temperatures in the shade can be up to 10 degrees cooler than in the sun – an important difference not just for your pet's comfort but for its health as well. Note that dogs and cats don't sweat: they can only release body heat by panting, which is not an efficient cooling method. Keeping your pet's body temperature from rising in the first place is the best way to prevent heat-related illness.

Cut it out!

Consider clipping your long-haired dogs in summer, especially if you're no good at keeping long coats well groomed. The animal might look a little funny, but sacrificing beauty for comfort is worthwhile. If you choose to clip your dog, keep in mind that shearing the hair close can leave your dog susceptible to sunburn.

Keep cruising.

If you take your pet on a car ride, make sure it's either a joy ride or that you can take your pet with you wherever you're going. A trip to the beach or park is fine for furry friends, but leaving them in the car - even with the windows down - is a bad idea. Play it safe and never leave pets in the car unattended.

Don't overdo it – or let your pet overdo it.

Watch your pet carefully when playing in the summertime. As noted, it's hard for animals to release body heat. Some animals may be so enthusiastic about playing or exercising that they continue to do so even when they are already overheating. It's up to you as a pet owner to realize that your pet's physical limits may be different from it's mental ones, and refrain from over-exercising your dog.