Extreme heat can take its toll on everybody—pets included. However, following a few simple pet wellness tips will keep your animal healthy all summer long. At Countryside Veterinary Clinic in Charles Town, WV, we hope you and your four-legged friends will enjoy the season with the following advice in mind.

5 Pet Wellness Tips to Beat the Summer Heat

1. Prevent Overheating

Dogs and cats can overheat quickly in high temperatures. Save longer walks for the early morning or evening hours and make sure animals have access to fresh water and shade when they’re outdoors. Finally, never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle.

2. Protect Their Paws

Hot asphalt can be harmful on dogs’ paws, so restrict daytime walks to grassy areas whenever possible. Another alternative is to invest in a pair of booties to prevent burning your pooch’s pads. If you do notice irritation, consider applying a paw balm to promote healing. However, a veterinarian should address any open wounds.

3. Safeguard Against Parasites

Most pets spend more time outdoors during the warm weather, which is peak season for parasites like ticks and heartworms. Thankfully, there are prevention methods. In addition to topical flea and tick treatments, there are collars and tablets to prevent infestations. You can also administer monthly heartworm tablets to protect against infected mosquitoes carrying the parasites.

4. Swim With Safety

Many dogs love the water, but even skilled swimmers can experience exhaustion or difficulty exiting pools. Always supervise pets in the water and watch for signs of tiredness, such as heavy breathing. For extra precaution in larger bodies of water, equip your pup with a life vest.

5. Groom With Care

Some owners mistakenly assume shaving their furry pets is the best way to keep them cool in the summer. In reality, this has an adverse effect. Pets’ coats are naturally designed to regulate their body temperature; shaving makes them susceptible to sunburns and overheating. A professional groomer can trim the coat if it’s too long and matted, but never remove your pup’s full coat.

Whether you need to stock up on heartworm medication or are seeking an annual pet wellness exam for your animal, Countryside Veterinary Clinic will keep your pet healthy through every season. You can learn more about our services, including vaccinations and exams, online. Or, call (304) 752-7663 to schedule an appointment.