Beat the Summer Heat With These 5 Safety Tips
As the warm embrace of summer beckons, it’s the perfect time to relish the great outdoors with your beloved furry companions. Whether it’s playing fetch in the park, hiking along scenic trails, or simply lounging in the backyard, we understand that your pets love spending time outside just as much as you do. However, amidst all the sun and fun, we must also be vigilant about potential dangers that the season brings, such as high temperatures and outdoor hazards like ticks and snakes. In this article, the experts at the Animal Medical Center of Lapeer will guide you through five essential summer safety tips to ensure your furry friend remains safe and happy throughout the season.
1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated
During the scorching summer months, it’s crucial to keep your pet well-hydrated to avoid dehydration and heat stroke. Always ensure a steady supply of fresh, clean water for your pets, particularly when they are spending time outdoors. To add a refreshing twist, consider freezing ice cubes made from low-sodium broth or plain water to give your pets a cool treat that also helps them stay hydrated.
2. Protect Your Pet from the Sun
Just like us, our pets can be vulnerable to sunburn. To shield your furry friend from the harmful effects of the sun, limit their exposure during peak hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm. If they must be outside during these hours, invest in pet-safe sunscreen specially formulated for animals. Apply the sunscreen to areas like their nose, ears, belly, and any other exposed skin. It’s essential to avoid using regular sunscreen meant for humans, as it can be toxic to animals.
3. Avoid Hot Surfaces
As the mercury rises, hot concrete and asphalt can pose a risk to your pet’s paws. Opt for walking your dog during cooler parts of the day, and whenever possible, steer clear of hot surfaces altogether. A simple test to check if the ground is too hot for your pet is to place your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your furry friend’s paws.
4. Check Your Pet for Ticks
Ticks are more prevalent during the summer months and can carry diseases harmful to both pets and humans. After your pets spend time outdoors, particularly in wooded or grassy areas, be sure to thoroughly check them for ticks. Pay special attention to their armpits, ears, belly, and other hairless areas. Should you discover a tick, promptly remove it with tweezers and monitor your pet for any signs of illness.
5. Keep Your Pet Away from Snakes
Summertime can also bring an increase in snake activity, potentially putting your pet in harm’s way. To minimize the risk, teach your pet to avoid snakes and consider keeping them on a leash while exploring wooded areas or hiking. In the unfortunate event of a snake bite, seek immediate veterinary attention.
In conclusion, summer, though delightful, does come with its share of hazards for our pets. But by adhering to these five essential summer safety tips, you can ensure their well-being and happiness throughout the season. Should you ever have any concerns about your pet’s health or well-being, do not hesitate to reach out to us at the Animal Medical Center of Lapeer. Remember, prevention is key, so take the necessary steps to protect your furry friend this summer.
