Seasonal Safety Needs for Summer

Summer Pet Safety
Your pet’s needs differ with the seasons, and summer has its own set of dangers. While there is plenty of fun to be had in the sun, such heat can be overwhelming for your companion. Dogs and cats can’t sweat like we do so the heat affects them more—and faster. In addition, fireworks and thunderstorms can cause fear and anxiety for pets with noise phobias. Follow these tips to help your pet enjoy summer as much as you do:

  • When outdoors in the heat, make sure your pet has plenty of cool, fresh drinking water available, as well as a cool patch of shade to rest in.
  • NEVER leave your pet in a parked car for any length of time. The inside of a car can heat up rapidly, leaving your pet susceptible to heat stroke within minutes. Don’t take the risk! Take them out with you or leave them at home.
  • Pets can get sunburn, too! Those with short white coats and pink skin are particularly vulnerable, but any pet can get burned on their exposed skin such as their nose and even their ears. Keep them out of the sun as much as you can, and even apply a little bit of sunscreen if it’s unavoidable!
  • Take your dog on walks earlier in the morning and later in the evening to avoid the hottest times of the day.
  • Keep up to date with pest prevention. Parasite and other pests are at their prime in the warm summer weather and our area is prone to ticks, which can carry Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses. Make sure your pet is protected!
  • Fireworks and thunderstorms are frequent occurrences in the summer and can frighten pets with noise phobias. Try to reduce their fear by placing them in a room where the noise is more muffled such as a bathroom, basement or bedroom. If your pet suffers from severe anxiety, please talk to your veterinarian about anti-anxiety medication.

Sign of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a serious condition that affects your pet when the heat becomes unbearable. Their body temperature rises much too high and they develop a rapid heart rate and could even have kidney failure. Learn to spot the signs and bring your pet to us right away.

  • Excessive panting and dehydration
  • Vomiting
  • Reddened tongue and gums
  • Thick Saliva
  • Weakness and lethargy

Our West Hartford clinic is open 24/7 for emergency care, so no matter what time of day or night, we’re here to set you right. Bring your pet to us immediately if they experience any of the above symptoms.

For more information on summer pet safety, call us today!