Summer is here and that mean’s fun in the sun! If you have a dog or other pet even, that you like to take on summer adventures with you, do you know how to ensure their safety and care this summer? Here are a few reminders on how to properly care for your animals in the summer heat.
Care for Pets’ Paws
On the asphalt, a dog’s paws can burn. The hot payment after sitting in the scorching sun can burn the padding, injuring their paws. There are a few ways you can prevent this from happening:
- Walk your dog when it’s cool
- Stay on the grass with your dog
- Get your dog wearable paw shoes
- Use Paw Wax
Ensuring the safety of your dog’s paws seems like an easy thing to do, however, it often goes overlooked by owners. Dog paw wax is something you can buy at the store, order online or even make in a homemade dog paw recipe. The wax works as a natural moisturiser for their padding. When you walk your dog in the heat, or even in the evening after a hot day, pay attention and make sure you dog’s paws are okay.
Don’t Leave Pets in the Cars
Although many dogs love to go for a ride, it’s critical not to leave your dog in a parked car. Even with the window’s down, a car’s temperature can still be much hotter than outside. In a matter of minutes, the car’s temperature can exceed 120 degrees. With cracked windows, the temperature can still rise to unbearable degrees.
Your dog could suffer from dehydration, heat stroke, brain damage, heat stress or even suffocation. Here are a few signs of heat stress in dogs:
- Glazed eyes
- Heavy panting
- Vomiting
- Deep red or purple tongue
- Staggering or unstable
If you notice any of those signs on your dog, immediately take your dog to the veterinarian. You can also cool your dog down by placing a damp, cool towel over his or her body. If you notice another dog left in a car, with or without the windows cracked, you should call local police or animal shelter to come to the rescue.
Don’t Leave Pets Outside All Day
It’s important that you provide proper care for your pets, especially in the heat. Dogs are often left outside without shade or water. If you want to give your dog fresh air, be sure that they have access to a shaded area, as well as a water bowl with clean water everyday.
You should never leave your dog out in the hot sun for long periods of time. This can cause dehydration and heat stress. Always make sure your dog has a fresh bowl of water throughout the day to give your dog proper hydration.
Summer is here and it’s vital that you give your pet the proper care it deserves.