Summer is a relaxing time for all, but don’t forget that some summertime festivities can pose a danger to your pet or make them feel uncomfortable. Always keep an eye out for how they respond to the environment. Here are a few reminders of how to keep your pet safe and comfortable all throughout summer:
1. Fireworks & Thunderstorms
- Keep pets in a secure location, preferably inside.
- Occupy the space with fresh water, toys, and leave a TV or Radio on for noise distractions.
- Prior to the event or thunderstorm, you could try giving your pet a good quality relaxer, such as CBD oil to help with anxiety.
- Make sure your pet has a microchip.
2. 
Sun & Heat
- Stay off pavement/concrete and sand – paws are very sensitive and can burn or blister.
- Test with your bare foot for 7 seconds on the surface the dog will be walking on. If it is too hot for you, it will be too hot for them.
- Consider buying booties for your dog if you will be taking them out on hot surfaces.
- Keep your pet hydrated!
- Know and be on the lookout for the signs of dehydration and overheating: excessive panting, dark red gums, increased heart rate, & weakness.
- Slather on that SPF! Dogs that are white, hairless or lightly colored can burn.
- Morning (before sunrise) or Evening (after sunset) walks are best to minimize heat related stress.
- Play in sprinklers or kiddie pool.
- Limit excessive play or outdoor activities.
- Prevent overheating by taking breaks in the shade every 30 minutes.
- Keep your pet inside when temperatures rise.
3. Toxic Chemicals
- Watch for Poisonous plants.
- Insecticides, insect repellents, sunscreen, citronella products, and glow sticks are toxic to pets, so it’s best to keep them out of reach or away from your pets.
4. Parties & BBQ’s
- Keep alcohol and food out of pets reach.
- Some foods are hazardous to your pets health: Onions, grapes, avocados, chocolate, cooked bones, etc.
- Make sure there is plenty of shade available for the pets attending.
- Water activities:
- Make sure there is easy access to get in and out.
- Rinse your pups after a dip in the pool as the chemicals can be harmful to pets.
- Allow time to rest, swimming can be strenuous.
- Try to minimize how much ocean, pool, lake, etc. water dogs are consuming because it can dehydrate them faster.
5. Hot Cars
- Even with the windows cracked, the inside temperature of a car can reach 100 degrees in 10 minutes when it is 85 degrees outside!
- Never leave your pet alone in the car.
6. Pests
- Flea, tick and mosquito prevention is key during the summer months.
- Pets can contract serious health issues from these pests.