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Summer can be a magical time for you and your pet, providing ample opportunities to get outside, explore, and enjoy time with one another. Unfortunately, summer presents some special hazards to your pet, such as dehydration, sunburn, and overheating. Here are a few ways to keep your dog safe this summer, so you can avoid unnecessary trips to the animal hospital.

Ways to Protect Your Animal During Summer

1. Create Shade Outdoors 

Your dog will need shady, cool places where they can rest, even if they are mostly an outdoor pet. Create extra shaded areas outside by putting up things like beach umbrellas and shade sails, so your pet always has somewhere cool and comfortable to sit. 

2. Provide Ample Amounts of Water

animal hospitalWhen the temperatures outside rise, so do the hydration needs of your animal. Since pets sweat like people to cool themselves, it is important to make sure that your dog has access to clean water all throughout the day. As a general rule of thumb, your dog should be drinking between 0.5 and 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. Talk with the veterinarians at your local animal hospital about how much your pet should be drinking. 

3. Keep Pet Sunscreen on Hand

Although most people don’t realize it, dogs can become sunburned if they are in the sun for long periods of time—especially if they have light colored fur or a coat that has been cut too short. Always keep pet sunscreen on hand for times when your animal will be spending time outside. If you suspect your animal has a sunburn, take them to an animal hospital as soon as possible to learn more about treating the condition.

 

If you need help learning how to care for your pet during the heat of summer, the team at Thompson Animal Medical Center can help. With a commitment to honoring pets and protecting them every step of the way, this trusted animal hospital can help with everything from routine vaccinations and medical exams to emergency care and surgery. Visit their website today or give their La Crosse, WI, office a call at (608) 788-8820 to schedule a visit for your pet. 

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