6 Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe in the Heat
We are fast approaching the dog days of summer. For many of us across the country this weekend, it feels like we are already in them with temperatures soaring into the triple digits. However, it is still summer and that means we all, our pets included, want to enjoy the sunny days while they last. We have compiled a list of six tips to keep in mind before letting your pup outside to play during these extremely hot days.
- If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog. It may sound simple enough, but many of us forget just how true it is. Especially when your pup is eagerly wagging and barking to go outside to play. As the Pet Parent, you have to set the terms for when and how long to let your dog outside.
- Maintain the mane. Make it a habit to brush your dog's coat a few times a week. You could also schedule regular grooming sessions to keep your dog's coat short during the summer. Ask your veterinarian about your dog's grooming to learn what is best to keep a protective coat on them too.
- Block the sun. Just like us, fair-skinned animals can get sunburned. You can search for PABA-free sunscreens for your pet to apply if they will be exposed to the sun for a long period of time. The best protection though is to provide plenty of shade for your furry friend outside and keep them inside when the sun is at its strongest point of the day.
- Know the signs of heatstroke. Your pet cannot tell you when they are too hot. It's important to recognize when they may be suffering from heat exhaustion. Watch for signs of heavy panting, a rapid heartbeat, glazed eyes, fever, dizziness, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, lack of coordination, deep red gums and tongue, vomiting, and unconsciousness. If you witness or suspect any of these signs, get your pet to the shade or inside quickly. Apply a cool cloth to their head, neck and chest then call your veterinarian for further instructions.
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Have fun inside. If you wouldn't go outside, why should your pet? Find ways to make the indoors your summer sanctuary. Move furniture to create a play space for your pup, talk a walk around the (inside of) your home. If you have kids, make it a game of hide and seek!
- Keep BrilliantPad handy! Our pets’ paws are very sensitive. The skin on their paws can be burned just like the bottoms of our feet. If it's too hot or your dog is a breed, like a pug, who really cannot handle hot temperatures at all, use BrilliantPad. Being a responsible pet parent means knowing how to tend to your pet’s needs. We know going #1 and #2 is one of those. Your dog will be able to relieve themselves without worry about exposure to extreme weather conditions, and you won't break a sweat either!
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