Reviewed by Dr. Terry White, DVM
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but for our furry friends, the heat can be dangerous. Pets can suffer from dehydration, heatstroke, and sunburn just like humans, making it crucial to take extra precautions during the warmer months. At EverPal, our mission is to keep every furry family member safe and healthy. Therefore, we’ve prepared the essential tips on how to ensure their pets stay safe, cool, and comfortable all summer long.
1. Keep Dogs and Cats Hydrated
One of the simplest yet most important ways to protect your pets during summer is to ensure they have constant access to fresh water. Pets can dehydrate quickly in the heat, so always keep a bowl of cool, clean water in a shady spot. If you’re going out, carry a portable water dish.
2. Know the Signs of Heatstroke
If you notice your dog or cat is lethargic and drooling, there could other causes but one of the potential causes could be heatstroke. Recognizing the signs of heatstroke can save your pet’s life. Symptoms include:
Excessive panting
Drooling
Lethargy
Vomiting
Uncoordinated movements
Seizure
In severe cases, loss of consciousness
If you notice any of these signs, move your pet to a cooler area immediately, perform first aid, and consult a veterinarian.
3. Provide Shade and Shelter
Always provide a cool, shady spot for your pets when they’re outdoors. Avoid confined spaces like cars or small, unventilated sheds, which can quickly become heat traps.
4. Limit Exercise for Your Dog In The Summer Season
Adjust the intensity and duration of your pet's exercise during the summer. Opt for early morning or evening hours when the temperatures are cooler. Always check the pavement with your hand before walks; if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
5. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car
Never leave your pet in a parked car, even with the window slightly open. Temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels, even on moderately warm days.
6. Mind the Sunscreen
Just like humans, pets can get sunburned too, especially those with light skin and short or thin fur.
Did you know your pet can benefit from sunscreen? If you shave your dog’s coat in the summer to keep them cool, applying sunscreen can be beneficial. Pets that have experienced hair loss due to allergies, surgery, or cancer treatments might also need sunscreen for protection.
Note if you intend to use sunscreen on your cat baby, ensure the product is explicitly labeled as safe and suitable for cats. Steer clear of human sunscreens with ingestion warnings, as they contain ingredients that could be toxic to dogs or cats if licked.
It’s best to ask your vet, or one of our EverPal veterinarians about pet-safe sunscreen for your pet’s nose and ears.
7. Keep Parasite Free
Summer is also the peak season for fleas and ticks. Ensure your pet is up to date with their flea and tick prevention. Regularly check your pet's coat after they've been outside, especially if they've been in wooded areas or tall grass. Consult with your vet, or choose the easiest way of accessing top-rated vets - from the comfort of your home, consult with an EverPal veterinarian to choose the best flea and tick prevention method for your pet, and have medications shipped to your home.
8. Keep Up with Grooming
Regular grooming helps prevent summer skin problems and helps your pets stay cool. Brushing cats more often can prevent problems caused by excessive heat and help with shedding.
Guidance from Top-Tier Veterinarians, Right From Home
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun summer with your furry friends. Remember, if you ever have any doubts about your pet’s health, consult with Dr. Terry White with 40 years of experience, available same-day.
We currently provide veterinary services in San Francisco, South San Francisco, Daly City, Oakland, and Berkeley in California.
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