Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe in Hot Weather

Protect Your Pets from Heat-Related Risks

As the temperature rises, it's crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets. Here are some essential tips to keep them safe during the hot months.

1. Never Leave Your Pets in Your Vehicle

   Hundreds of pets die from heat exhaustion each year because they are left in parked vehicles (source: AVMA). Many pet owners don’t realize that even if they leave the windows cracked or the air conditioner running, temperatures can still rise quickly. This can put pets at risk of serious illness or death.

   
   

1. Exercise Caution During Hot Weather

   Avoid walking dogs or allowing them to exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, opt for early morning or evening walks. Remember that hot pavement can injure your pet’s paws. Here’s a quick tip: Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can’t hold it for five seconds or more, it’s too hot to walk your dog.

   
   

2. Protect Their Skin

   Your pets have delicate skin. Did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in dogs and the second-most common in cats? While fur provides some protection, you should apply sunscreen to your pet’s least hair-covered spots—like their bellies and around their ears and eyes. Use sunscreens made specifically for pets, as zinc oxide can be toxic. If your pet gets a sunburn, applying pure aloe can help soothe irritation, but consult your veterinarian first.

   
   

Check out this LINK to great Pet Sunscreen products on Amazon.

1. Recognize Signs of Heat Exhaustion

   Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion. Symptoms may include trouble breathing, excessive panting, increased heart rate, weakness, or collapsing. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, contact your veterinarian immediately.

   
   

2. Keep Your Pets Cool Indoors

   It’s not just outdoor heat that poses a risk. High indoor temperatures can also be dangerous for pets. While it may be tempting to turn up the thermostat to save on energy costs, remember that if it’s too warm for you, it’s also too warm for your pets.

   
   

3. Leash Your Pets

   Summer often means more time spent outside, sometimes without a leash. This can lead to an increase in pets being hit by cars. Always keep your dogs on a leash or confined by a fence. Even well-behaved dogs should be leashed. Many cats also get hit by vehicles, so ensure they are kept indoors or in a secure area.

   
   

4. Prevent High-Rise Syndrome

   During warmer months, veterinarians see an increase in injuries from “High-Rise Syndrome,” which occurs when pets fall out of windows or doors. Ensure all windows are closed and have well-fitting screens to prevent accidents.

   
   

5. Water Safety for Pets

   Be mindful of water safety. Never leave your dog unsupervised near an uncovered pool. When boating or at the beach, have your dog wear a bright life jacket. If you have a pool, practice getting your dog out using the stairs several times.

   
   

Check out this LINK to great Pet Life Jacket products on Amazon.

1. Beware of Cookout Hazards

   Summer cookouts can pose risks for pets. Charcoal briquettes can get stuck in your dog’s stomach, requiring surgery. Don’t allow guests to share scraps with your dog, as fatty leftovers can cause severe abdominal pain or even death. Foods like corn on the cob can also become lodged in a dog’s intestines.

   
   

10. Garden and Garage Hazards

Be aware of hazards in your garden and garage. Common shrubs like azaleas can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. Certain lilies can cause acute kidney failure in cats, and even a few leaves can be fatal. In your garage, keep pesticides and insecticides out of reach. Fireworks can also be tempting for curious dogs, and the chemicals inside can cause serious side effects.

BONUS TIP: Fireworks are common during summer celebrations but can be very scary for your pets. During a fireworks display, keep your pets inside in a safe space. Close all doors and windows, and turn on the television or play calming music. Ensure your pet wears a tag with your contact information, as well as the pet sitter’s contact information, in case they become scared and escape.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pets remain safe and healthy throughout the summer months. Enjoy the season while keeping your furry friends in mind!