How to Care for Your Pets This Summer

No doubt, summer time is a fun time, but you also have to deal with the summer pet care challenges. When it comes to the wild animals, they’re already well-adapted to the elements, but companion pets can be susceptible to extreme weather similar to their owners.

Here are some simple, yet effective pet care tips for summer season.

1. Respect the Heat

Not only humans can find a summer days overwhelming, but the pets do as well. However, unlike human, pets don’t have much ability to cope with the heat. Humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body, but dogs release heat by paw pads and panting. During the summer season, dehydration could be a big problem, too. As per the ASPCA, flat-faced animals such as Persian cats and Pugs can’t be able to pant as effectively, that’s more vulnerable to heat stroke. In the hot weather, try to make sure that Fluffy and Fido has access to the fresh, cold water and don’t let them run outside afternoon till the evening.

2. Get Rid of Bugs

Another summer pet care tip is to keep the ticks and other insects away from your pet. Bugs don’t only carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off could also create problems for your pet’s health. Pesticides and fertilizers might be good for your lawn, but it can be dangerous for your pet. It’s better to keep the grass cut short in the pet’s playing area in order to avoid ticks and other summer insects.

3. Be Cautious of Antifreeze

Antifreeze can leak out of the overheated vehicles during the summertime, leaving puddles on the road that your pet can easily lick up and swallow. Antifreeze has a sweet taste, which is tempting to cats and dogs. However, this toxic substance is lethal when ingested. Beware of your neighbor’s vehicles and puddles on the street, and ensure your pet should stay away from it.

4. Check If Your Pet Needs Sunscreen

Just remember that the pets with short hairs and pink skin are more vulnerable to sunburn. Ask your veterinarian which sunscreen suits your pet’s skin and apply it as part of summer pet care routine. Never use insect repellents or sunscreens that aren’t particularly designed for use on pets. Ingesting sunscreens could cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and excessive thirst in animals.

5. Practice Water Safety

Along with the other summer pet care tips, water safety is all about thing beyond. Of course, it’s to take your pet to the pool or beach, but you have to pay extra attention when your pet is in or near water. It can’t be wrong to say; even a professional swimmer can have trouble getting out of the pool or get trapped by any obstacles. If you are planning risky summer adventures for your pet such as boating, then learn some safety tips beforehand. It would be an excellent approach to keep your pet out of harm’s way.