Summer brings longer days, backyard barbecues, and the perfect excuse to explore the great outdoors with your pet. Before you and your furry sidekick head out for sunshine-filled adventures, it’s important to think about safety. Fun in the sun can quickly turn risky for cats and dogs. MyVet in Chesapeake has put together our essential guide to protecting your pets from heat, pests, and other seasonal hazards, so you can enjoy summer worry-free.
The Risks of Hot Weather for Pets
Dogs and cats don’t sweat all over their bodies the way humans do. Dogs mostly pant to cool down. Cats seek out cool areas and surfaces to lounge on. These cooling methods make them more prone to overheating, especially during outdoor play, car rides, or midday walks. Heatstroke is a serious condition that can escalate very quickly in pets. What does heatstroke look like?
- Heavy, rapid panting
- Excessive drooling or foaming
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Loss of balance
- Weakness or collapse
Move your pet to a cool space, offer water, and call a veterinarian or emergency facility right away.
Vet-Recommended Pet Safety Tips for Summer
Book a Pre-Summer Wellness Exam
A yearly check-up is a chance to verify that your pet is in shape for summer activities. The veterinary team will check that vaccines are current, parasite protection is active, and any health concerns are addressed. Plan on bringing your motion-sick pet on car rides to a vacation destination? A vet visit can help with that, too!
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Always have clean water available for your pet. If you’re on the go, bring a portable bowl and encourage frequent water breaks. Ice cubes make a nice cooling addition to any bowl.
Beat the Heat with Smart Timing
Walks and play sessions should happen early or late in the day when temperatures are cooler. Pavement and sidewalks can get scorching hot. If it’s too warm for your bare hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
Provide Shady Spaces
Whether at home or out for a picnic, make sure your pet has access to shade. Cooling mats and elevated beds can help keep body temps in check. Get more ideas from this AAHA guide to heat safety.
Practice Pool and Water Safety
Supervise your pet around pools, lakes, or beaches. Some dogs swim naturally, but many don’t. Use a life vest for added safety and always rinse off chlorine or saltwater post-swim.
Watch Out for Outdoor Hazards
Summer brings ticks, mosquitoes, and more. Stick to your pet’s flea/tick and heartworm prevention schedule and keep an eye out for toxic plants, leftover food, or sharp objects in outdoor spaces.
Maintain Their Coat with Regular Grooming
A well-groomed pet is a cooler pet, as matting can trap heat and bacteria. Brush your companion regularly to remove excess fur.
Stay Safe This Summer with Veterinary Services in Chesapeake, VA
A little preparation goes a long way. Keeping your pet safe in the summer heat should always be a part of your plans. MyVet has veterinary services like parasite prevention and vaccinations for pets in Chesapeake and for pets from Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and neighboring areas. Let’s make this summer a safe and healthy one for your pet! Schedule an appointment to get ready for all your warm-weather adventures.