Summer is in full force, which means temperatures are rising and you may be tempted to enjoy the great outdoors. But before you embark on a fun adventure with your pet, remember that they need to stay cool too. Animal Health Center, the leading animal hospital in Enterprise, AL, has a few tips that will keep your pet from overheating in this summer’s heat.

Here are a few great ways to keep your pet safe this summer:

• Beat The Heat: If you’re planning an outdoor adventure or even just a walk around your neighborhood, doing so before the hottest part of the day is a good idea. You may also want to wait until the evening to take your pet out for some exercise when the sun is beginning to set and temperatures drop.
• Never Leave Pets In Cars: It’s never a good idea to leave your pet in a car unattended in the summer’s heat. Even with windows cracked and a water bowl provided, pets can overheat quickly and even die.
• Provide Enough Water: Always make sure your dog or cat’s water bowl is filled throughout the day. If you’re planning an outdoor activity with them, always take enough water for them too.

• Take Breaks: If your pet has been outdoors in the heat most of the day, give them a break by allowing them indoors, or find a shaded area where they can relax. Remember, if you’re hot, your pet likely is too.
• Buy Your Pet Shoes: Especially useful for walks on hot pavement, pet shoes are a great way to protect your dog’s delicate paws. Veterinarians say paw burns are very common in the summer months, so help them avoid injury by purchasing shoes or socks for them to wear.
• Use Pet-Friendly Sunscreen: Pets can sunburn despite their thick coats of fur, so always apply a pet-friendly sunscreen to them before heading outside for the day. Most pet stores and animal hospitals carry sunscreen products that are safe for pets to use.

For more tips to help your pet beat the heat this summer, call Animal Health Center at (334) 347-0544, and browse the animal hospital’s website for more information.