A Complete Guide to Summer Safety for Pets

Summer Safety for Pets: Essential Tips to Keep Your Furry Friends Safe in the Heat

Summer is fun for both people and pets. The days are long, the sun is bright, and many of us enjoy being outside. But hot weather can be hard on pets. They can get sick if we don’t take care of them properly. This guide will help you keep your pets safe during summer.

1. Keep Your Pet Cool

• Pets feel the heat more than people. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like us, and they get hot quickly. Some pets, like bulldogs or Persian cats, are more at risk.

What you can do:

• Give your pet cool, clean water all the time.
• Keep them indoors when the sun is very hot (from 12 PM to 4 PM).
• If they go outside, make sure there is shade.
• Don’t make them run or play too much in the heat.
• Use fans or pet cooling mats inside.

2. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car

• This is very important. Cars get hot very fast, even if the windows are open a little. A pet can get very sick or die in just a few minutes.

What you can do:

• Take your pet with you when you leave the car.
• If you see a pet left in a hot car, try to find the owner or call for help.

3. Protect Their Paws

In summer, roads and sidewalks get very hot. This can burn your pet’s paws.

• Touch the ground with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet.
• Walk your pet early in the morning or late in the evening.
• Use grassy paths.
• You can also try dog shoes for extra safety.

4. Give Plenty of Water

Pets need more water in summer. If they don’t drink enough, they can get sick.

• Keep bowls of clean water in the house and outside.
• Change the water often.
• You can add ice cubes to make it cooler.
• Try wet pet food to give more water through food.
• You can read more tips on keeping your pet hydrated in summer.

5. Watch for Heatstroke

Heatstroke is very dangerous. Pets get too hot and can’t cool down. 

Signs to look for:

• Heavy panting
• Drooling a lot
• Looking weak or sleepy
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bright red tongue or gums

If you see these signs, move your pet to a cool place right away and call your vet.

6. Keep Bugs Away

Summer brings fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These bugs can make your pet sick.

How to protect your pet:

• Use flea and tick medicine from your vet.
• Don’t let your pet walk in tall grass.
• Check their fur for bugs after playing outside.

For more info, read how to protect your pets from fleas and ticks.

7. Be Safe Near Water

Not all pets can swim. Pools, lakes, or beaches can be risky.

• Always watch your pet near water.
• Use a pet life jacket if needed.
• Don’t let pets drink water from lakes or puddles. It can make them sick.

Final Thoughts

• Summer should be safe and fun for your pets. Just give them water, shade, and love. Pay attention to signs of sickness and act fast if needed. Your care makes a big difference.

In case of emergencies, contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provide the best urgent care services to keep your pets healthy and happy, especially in emergencies. We offer our veterinary services in Charlottesville, VA. To book an appointment, call us at (434) 971-9800. Our experienced team is available 7 days a week, ensuring your pets get prompt and compassionate care when they need it most. Walk-ins are welcome during urgent care hours.