Keep Your Pet Cool in Summer: Many parts of the country are experiencing intense summer heat, which increases the risk of heat-related illnesses. Pets are at high risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and digestive problems during hot weather because they can’t sweat like humans and struggle to cool down. Pet parents should take action to keep their pets safe from the heat. Here are some tips:
- Provide plenty of water: Make sure your pet always has fresh water available throughout the day.
- Feed hydrating foods: Offer foods that contain moisture to keep your pet hydrated.
- Move them to cooler areas: Keep your pet in cooler parts of your home.
- Walk them during cooler times: Take your pet for walks early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the peak heat.
A lack of a hydrating diet, exposure to extreme heat, and not enough water can cause your pet to suffer from dehydration, heatstroke, and other heat-related issues.
Taking proactive steps and staying informed can help prevent heat-related problems and keep your pets happy and healthy. Proper water intake is crucial during summer not only for hydration but also to regulate body temperature and support overall health. Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration and symptoms such as fatigue, dry gums, sunken eyes, and excessive panting.
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Mistakes in grooming and hygiene for pets during summer
A fresh haircut for your pet can help them stay cool, but it is not a good idea to completely shave your dog. Their coat protects them from overheating and sunburn. Dogs have sensitive skin, so avoid bathing them too often. Excessive scratching and licking may be signs of summer allergies or parasites.
A fresh haircut for your pet can help them stay cool, but it is not a good idea to completely shave your dog. Their coat protects them from overheating and sunburn. Dogs have sensitive skin, so avoid bathing them too often. Excessive scratching and licking may be signs of summer allergies or parasites.
For cats, brushing them more often can help prevent issues caused by too much heat. If you use sunscreen or wipes on your pets, make sure they are safe for animals. Always check the labels to ensure the products are pet-friendly. For cats, brushing them more often can help prevent issues caused by too much heat. If you use sunscreen or wipes on your pets.
Hydrating foods for your pet’s diet in summer
The summer heat can affect your pet’s digestion, so it is important to include hydrating foods in their diet. Fresh treats like watermelon and curd can help keep your pet cool and hydrated.
Wet food options can also help dogs stay hydrated because they contain a lot of moisture. Pre-packaged dry and wet food recommended by vets is nutritionally balanced and can be a good choice during hot weather. These foods help ensure your pet gets enough water and nutrients to stay healthy in the heat.
Make sure your pet has enough water in summer
To keep your pet safe from dehydration, check how much water they are drinking and make sure they have water available both inside and outside your home. Put water bowls in different areas of your house or yard so your pet can easily find water wherever they go.
If your pet likes drinking from the hose outside, you might try using a water fountain-style indoor bowl. It can make drinking water more fun for your pet. During summer, pets are often more active, so it’s important to provide plenty of water to make up for the fluids lost from increased panting and sweating.
Don’t forget about your pet’s safety in summer
Summer requires extra care for your pets. Watch them closely near open windows or pools, and never leave them in cars. Heatstroke can happen quickly. If you have pets that are young, old, overweight, or specific breeds like pugs and shih tzus, they need extra care. Pets with health issues also need special attention.
Look out for signs of heatstroke like heavy panting or tiredness. If you see these signs, cool your pet down gently. If symptoms get worse or your pet vomits or has diarrhea, take them to a vet. Keep an eye on your pet’s health during hot weather to keep them safe.
Walking your pet at the right time in summer
Plan your daily walks for early morning or late evening when it’s cooler outside. Pavements can stay hot even after sunset, which can burn your pet’s paws and lead to overheating or dehydration.
Take breaks in the shade to help your pet cool down and avoid over-excitement. Keep a portable water bowl with you so your pet can drink water during the walk and stay hydrated. By choosing the right time and taking these precautions, you can keep your pet safe and comfortable during summer walks.
Avoiding skin care mistakes for your pet in summer
Keep your pet’s coat intact as it protects them from the sun and helps prevent heatstroke. Dogs have sensitive skin, so avoid bathing them too often as it can irritate them. Excessive scratching and licking may be signs of summer allergies or parasites.
For cats, regular brushing during the hot months can help them feel more comfortable in the heat. Always make sure any grooming products you use, such as sunscreen or wipes, are safe for pets. By paying attention to your pet’s skin care needs, you can keep them healthy and happy during the summer.
Adjusting your pet’s diet for summer
The summer heat can impact your pet’s digestion, so it’s important to add cooling foods rich in probiotics to their diet. Some good summer treats for pets include watermelon and curds.
Switching from red meats to white meats like chicken can also be beneficial in summer. Pre-packaged dry and wet food recommended by vets is nutritionally balanced and can be a good choice during hot weather. By adjusting your pet’s diet for summer, you can help them stay healthy and comfortable in the heat.
Taking precautions on daily walks in summer
Pick the coolest times of the day for walks, such as early morning or late evening. Roads can stay hot into the evening, which can burn your pet’s paws and cause overheating. Avoid over-exciting your dog or cat in the summer; instead, take breaks from playing in the shade.
Make sure your pet stays hydrated by carrying a portable water bowl with you during walks. By taking these precautions, you can keep your pet safe and comfortable during summer walks.
Watch out for signs of heatstroke in your pet
Certain pets are more prone to heatstroke, including young or elderly pets, those with heart and lung issues, overweight pets, small breeds, and breeds from cooler regions or with flat faces.
Watch for signs like excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, lethargy, and difficulty balancing. If you notice these signs, move your pet to a cool, shaded area. Pour room-temperature water on them, use a wet towel to wipe their body, or place an icepack between their legs to cool them down.
If your pet’s condition worsens, or they start vomiting or have diarrhea, take them to your vet immediately. By paying attention to these signs and taking quick action, you can help your pet stay safe and healthy during hot weather.
Also Read: Summer Season Tips: How to Stay Safe During Hot Weather?
