Sadie Reminder: Pets Get Hot, Too!
With the summer season in full swing, it’s important to remember that our furry friends need special care during the heat. From protecting their paws to keeping them hydrated, many things must be considered to ensure your pets stay safe and healthy during summer. Here are some essential tips for keeping your pets cool and comfortable as the temperatures rise. Let’s make sure our beloved companions can enjoy the summer just as much as we do!
Scorching Sidewalks
The heat can make surfaces like cement, asphalt, and even truck beds scorching hot, posing a risk to your pet’s paws. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) suggests avoiding hot surfaces during summer walks.
Here’s a simple test: if you can’t hold the back of your hand to the sidewalk for ten seconds without discomfort, it’s too hot for your pet. Consider getting booties and walking your dog early or late in the evening when the ground is cooler.
Pets Need Sunblock
Like us, pets can suffer sunburn, especially those with light-colored or short coats. You can protect your furry friends by applying pet-safe sunscreen to their ears and noses about 30 minutes before heading outside. Having a dog who loves to bask in the sun is essential. You can help prevent painful burns and potential long-term skin damage to your dog by taking this step.
Get Your Pets Groomed
You can regulate your pet’s body temperature by keeping them well-groomed during the summer. The AVMA recommends regular grooming to improve circulation and help with temperature regulation.
Different breeds have different grooming needs, so consult your local veterinarian or groomer to determine the best cut for your pet. Regular grooming sessions can help spot skin issues early, ensuring your pet stays healthy and comfortable.
Heatwave
Your pets can’t sweat like you, so it is harder for them to cool down. Watch for signs of dehydration, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. If you notice these symptoms, take your pet to a cooler place and offer water immediately. Consider providing a cooling mat or a fan to help keep their resting area comfortable.
Understanding Pet Cooling Mechanisms
Our pets don’t sweat like us; they primarily cool off through panting and, to a lesser extent, through their paw pads. This limited cooling ability means they can overheat quickly, especially in high temperatures or humid conditions.
Essential Hydration
The Humane Society of the United States recommends that pets always have access to fresh, cool water. Dehydration is a severe risk for pets in hot weather. So, keep water bowls filled and consider placing multiple water sources around your home. If you’re out and about, carry a portable water bottle for your pet to ensure they can drink whenever needed.
Creating Cool Spaces
You must provide shady areas for your pets when they are with you. Whether at home or out in the yard, ensure plenty of shaded spots where your pet can escape the sun. You can also add a cooling mat or a fan to their resting area for comfort. These mats can provide a cool surface for your pets to lie on, helping them to lower their body temperature effectively.
Splish-Splash!
A kiddie (or doggie) pool can be a fantastic way for your pet to cool off and have fun at the same time. These small pools offer a safe and refreshing spot for dogs to play and chill out during hot days. Not only does it help them stay cool, but it also provides a fun activity that can keep them entertained for hours. Just supervise them to ensure safety, and empty and clean the pool regularly to keep it hygienic.
Benefits of a Doggie Pool
A doggie pool allows your pet to cool off and have fun simultaneously. These small pools offer a safe and refreshing spot for dogs to play and chill out during hot days. Not only does it help them stay cool, but it also provides a fun activity that can keep them entertained for hours.
Safe Play Practices
Keeping your pet cool is essential, but you must supervise them when they are in the pool. Keep a close eye on them to prevent any accidents or overexertion. Like you would do with your children, never leave your pet unattended in or near the water. Regularly check the pool’s water temperature, as water can heat up quickly in direct sunlight, making it less effective for cooling.
Maintenance Tips
Keeping the doggie pool clean is crucial for your pet’s health. Empty and rinse the pool regularly to remove any debris, algae, or bacteria that could build up. It will ensure your pet has a safe and hygienic place to cool off. Use pet-safe cleaning products if necessary, and always rinse thoroughly before refilling the pool.
Gardens, Garages, and Grass—Oh My!
The antifreeze will leak from overheating cars during the hot summer, leaving toxic, sweet-tasting puddles for your pets. Always check for leaks and keep pets away from puddles in your garage or driveway.
You must also be cautious with lawn and garden products, as some fertilizers and pesticides can harm your pet. Store these products out of reach and ensure your pets only have access to treated areas once they are safe.
Summertime Safety
Summer often means BBQs and fireworks, but these can pose risks to pets. Keep foods like onions, grapes, fatty meats, chocolate, and avocado out of your pet’s reach, as they can harm your furry friend. Your pet can also get scared by loud noises from fireworks and run away.
The ASPCA finds that more pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time. So, before the 4th of July arrives, ensure your pet has a safe, quiet hiding place and that its ID tags are current. This way, you can enjoy the festivities knowing your furry family member is safe and sound.
Stay Cool with Goettl
Ensuring your home stays cool during the summer months isn’t just essential for you—it’s crucial for your pets. By providing your pet with shady spots in your home, a doggie pool to cool, or simply maintaining your pet indoors during the daytime with the AC turned on and running efficiently, you’re helping your furry companions stay cool.
At Goettl Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we understand the importance of a well-functioning cooling system. If your air conditioner isn’t performing as it should, it could be more than just an inconvenience; it could be a health risk for your pets.
Call us today to schedule a maintenance check and ensure your home remains a haven for everyone in the family.
