Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors and soak up some sun. But when temperatures begin to rise, it’s important to pay particular attention to your pets and their condition. They tend to be more susceptible to overheating compared to humans, and some pet breeds are especially intolerant of the heat. While you’re having fun under the sun, don’t forget these pet safety tips for your furry friends.  

Pet Safety Reminders for Warm Weather

1. Have Your Pets Checked

Before it starts getting warm outside, bring your pets to the vet for a preventive checkup. Have them tested for heartworm if they’re not on year-round medication. Also, ask your doctor for a safe flea and tick control plan to keep those parasites in check.  

2. Give Them Plenty of Water

Pets get dehydrated fast when it’s hot outside, so always give them plenty of fresh, clean water to drink. Some animals won’t drink warm water, so you can add ice to keep it chilled longer.

3. Avoid the Sun

As much as possible, keep your pets inside your home where it’s cooler. Be wary of over-exercising them, and if you need to walk them outside, do so when it’s early in the morning or late at night. When you go for an errand, avoid leaving them alone in a parked car on a warm day, which is illegal in some states, not to mention potentially fatal.

4. Maintain Their Coat

A well-maintained coat insulates your pet from the heat and protects them against sunburn, so don’t shave them bald. To prevent heat stroke, have their coats trimmed, washed, and brushed by a pet grooming service. If you’re using sunscreen, make sure that it’s labeled for animal use.

5. Know the Signs of Heat Stroke

Excessive panting, increased heart rate, profuse drooling, mild weakness, or stupor are some of the symptoms of overheating. Breeds with short noses or flat faces, such as pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats, are unable to pant as effectively as others, increasing the risk of heat stroke. 

A little fun under the sun won’t hurt your furry friend, but make sure you have pet safety in mind. For excellent pet care this summer, turn to the team of professionals at Hickman Creek Kennel. They provide quality animal care and top-notch kennel services throughout Nicholasville, KY. Call (859) 885-3647 or visit them online for more information about pet safety.