Keep Your Pets Safe In The Heat

Summer is here! Below are some tips to keeping your pets safe in the hot summer heat:

• The ground is HOT! I you are going to take your pet, make sure to walk them in the grass or the shade whenever possible.  A quick tip: if the pavement is too hot for your bare hands or feet, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
• WATER! Always make sure to provide plenty of water to your pet. Staying hydrated is crucial on hot days to avoid illness. Whether your pet is indoors or outdoors, be sure to fill their water bowls several times a day and provide multiple watering stations.
• Please do not leave your pet in the car. On a mild to hot day, temperatures in a closed car (even with the windows cracked) can exceed 120 degrees in minutes, creating a very dangerous condition for any animal. Cracking a window or parking in the shade does not help. Please just leave your pet at home indoors.
• Take extra caution with older dogs. Just like older humans, older dogs can be especially susceptible to higher temperatures. And certain breeds with shorter noses (like pugs and bulldogs) are at a greater risk of heatstroke.
• Stay inside during the hot times of the day. Avoid being outside for long periods of time during the hottest time of the day. Animals can get sick quickly on hot days, even if they are in the shade.

If your pet is exhibiting signs of heat stroke, take your pet to the veterinarian immediately.