Keep your furry friend safe from heat, dehydration, burnt paws, and ticks with these four summer pet safety tips!

The days of the blistering summer heat are fast approaching, and pet parents must keep their fur baby’s needs in mind. Most dogs and cats love spending time outside during the summer, but there are some precautions you need to take. Dehydration, ticks, paw burns, and overheating are all challenges that dogs and cats face during the warmer months, so follow these summer pet safety tips to keep your pup or kitty safe!

1. Avoid Dehydration by Offering a Constant Supply of Water

Summer is a time of outdoor cookouts, beach trips, and all-day fun in the sun. Dehydration and the risk of heatstroke are major hazards that you must address. Fresh water should always be available to your dog or cat. Signs of dehydration include:

• Lethargy
• Sunken eyes
• Decreased urination
• Refusal to eat
• Weakness
• Dry gums

2. Safeguard Paws from Hot Surfaces 

During the heat of a summer day, the temperature of asphalt can reach as high as 145 F. That’s almost hot enough to fry an egg!

When your pup walks on a hot surface, they risk burning their pads. What’s more, dogs rely on the sweat glands in their paw pads to cool themselves down. If the ground is too hot, they won’t be able to get the relief they need. Try to walk on grass or dirt instead of on hot roads or sidewalks. This might mean your four-legged friend tracks more dirt into your house, but this is superior to burnt paws.

3. Groom Your Dog or Cat Regularly to Prevent Overheating

Summer grooming is essential to keep your fur baby cool. This can be as simple as brushing your four-legged friend regularly to reduce matting and remove excess fur to stop them from getting too hot. Just keep in mind that dogs and cats are also susceptible to sunburn. Fur is a dog’s or cat’s best defense against the sun. In other words, a haircut is great but don’t go too short!

4. Check Regularly for Ticks

Longer days and milder weather usually mean spending more time outside, but that also means more opportunities for your dog or cat to pick up ticks. You can’t protect your pup or kitty from all the dangers of the outdoors, but you can check them regularly for unwanted visitors to prevent Lyme disease and other insect-borne illnesses. This is especially important after they’ve been wandering in grassy or forested areas.

Summer is full of opportunities for fun and adventure. Animals thrive when they run and enjoy the outdoors. Playing outside is great for their physical and mental well-being. While you can’t protect them from all danger, you can use these summer pet safety tips to keep them cool, hydrated, and healthy.