Summertime Dos and Don’ts for Pet Owners

Summer means more chances for pets to nap in the warm sun, go on outdoor adventures, enjoy the smells and excitement of barbecues, and even swim with their humans. However, summertime pet hazards merit caution. Let's run through some summertime smart dos and don'ts for pet owners.

Do Watch Your Pet's Water Bowl

Pets require ready access to fresh water to stay properly hydrated under the summer sun. Put out enough water for all your furry friends and then watch those bowls carefully, refilling them before they can get too low. 

Even if the water level looks satisfactory, check the temperature. The last thing your pet needs or wants on a hot day is a bowl of hot water!

Don't Leave Your Pet in the Car

You've probably heard or read countless tragic stories of pet owners who left their animals in a car. This kind of unfortunate error isn't just heartbreaking; in 32 states, it's also against the law. Cracking a window doesn't bring the necessary relief when a car interior can easily reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more in just ten minutes. Since dogs and cats can perspire only on small areas of their bodies, they simply can't survive such an oven-like environment.

The easiest way to avoid this scenario is to leave your pet at home instead of taking it somewhere you might have to leave it in the car. If you must drive with your pet, put it on a leash or in a carrier so you can take it out of the car with you.

Do Create a Shady Space for Your Pet

Your backyard can be almost as hazardous as the inside of a parked car if it provides no protection from the sun. If you've ever thought about building a doghouse for your pet, summer is the perfect time. If you don't want to build a permanent structure, you can set up a camping tent that provides similar shade.

Overhead coverings can allow pets to lounge in the open air while still enjoying some much-needed shade. Consider installing an awning or other covering that creates a shady spot in your yard or on your deck.

Don't Ignore Signs of Heatstroke

You can't always tell when your pet is comfortable in summer temperatures -- but you can tell when it's running into trouble in the form of heatstroke. Heatstroke in pets occurs when exterior temperatures raise the core body temperature higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This condition can prove fatal if it goes unchecked.

Watch your pet carefully when spending time in the heat. Look for common signs of heatstroke in pets such as disorientation, panting, drooling, red gums, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or loss of consciousness. If you think your pet has heatstroke, wrap it loosely in cool, wet towels and rush it to the animal hospital.

Do Barbecue With Your Pet's Wellness in Mind

Everyone loves a festive barbecue on a summer day, but if you'll be barbecuing around pets, you need to take some extra precautions. For starters, leave your pet indoors while you're actually grilling and using barbecue tools. Let them out only after you've turned off the grill and removed any hazardous items.

Certain human foods that may enhance a barbecue while harming pets that get into them. Keep foods such as alcoholic beverages, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic out of paw's reach at all times, as they can have toxic effects on animals. You should also refrain from feeding your pet grilled fatty and/processed meats. Instead, treat your pet to healthier foods such as melon, green beans, or cooked unseasoned chicken.

Don't Go for a Swim Without the Proper Precautions

While some pets have no liking for water, others love to swim -- even if they're not very good at it. Some breeds have terrible trouble staying afloat and can easily drown. Buy some flotation devices designed for pets, make sure they fit correctly on your animal, and always fasten them on your pet before going near bodies of water.

The quality of water makes a difference as well. Avoid natural swimming holes or creeks, which may harbor dangerous microorganisms.

Your Vet Is Your Pet's Summertime Ally

Throughout the summer months, trouble can occur even if you follow all the best practices for protecting your beloved pet. That's why you should always have your trusted veterinarian's phone number on speed dial, and be ready to take your pet to the animal hospital if you suspect a summer-related health crisis. 

If you're not sure whether your pet is well enough for heavy activity in the summer heat, you may want to take your pet for a wellness exam before you plan your summer fun. You'll enjoy your summer that much more knowing that you've done all you can for your furry friend!