If you’ve started craving for an iced beverage after work (or workout), summer is just around the corner. But remember that while you’re trying to keep yourself cool pets too are struggling to do the same.
When it’s summer, dogs do enjoy playing out in the sun, but like you, even they can get dehydrated and overheated.
Whether you take them for a walk or drive them into your car, you should take a little extra care and precautions. And here are some of the ways to have cool dogs and cats in summer –
Avoid taking them out in peak hours
By the peak hours, I mean the happy hours for the sun, when it’s at its best distributing its heat. And it’s best to keep your pets in the shade in those times.
Also, limit the exercises when it’s hot and humid. And even if you’re doing it during the cool hours, summer isn’t good for a marathon.
Instead, take them on gentle walks early in the morning or the evening. And don’t forget taking water with you.
Grooming is necessary
Some pet owners trim the furs during summer, but it may result in overheating them and causing heatstroke. So, if you want to keep your pampered pets safe, groom them properly.
The dogs and cats need their furs to stay away from sunburns. But they also need them cut so that the skin can breathe.
Also, brushing your pets helps remove the loose furs and keep the coat healthy and comfortable.
Don’t leave them in the car
Even if you are going in the store for few minutes, don’t leave your cat panting in car. Cars can get quite hot in the direct sun, and your beloved pets may not be able to handle the rising temperature.
Even if you leave the windows open, the temperature can rise to 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit within minutes.
Such high temperatures can be life-threatening for them, and it’s best to leave them at home.
Keep them hydrated
While dehydration in pets can be difficult to detect, sunken eyes and dry mouth are one of the many symptoms.
So, if you’re levelling up the water level of your body, do the same for your cats and dogs.
Ensure that they always have access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Tree shade is better than their doghouse. Also, add small cubes of ice to the water whenever possible.
Know the signs of heatstroke
High temperatures don’t go well for pets, and they may get heatstroke. Some of the symptoms are heavy panting, rapid heartbeats, troubled breathing, deep red tongue, dizziness and also, unconsciousness.
And when it happens, get them into the shade, apply ice packs to head, neck and chest and wrap them up in wet towels. Let them drink water in small amounts and then, take them to a vet.
Don’t take chances with the life of pets and visit a vet if they show signs of discomfort. They can’t tell you even if they aren’t feeling well.
From http://dylangoettlich.net/5-ways-to-keep-your-pet-cool-in-summer/
Dylan Goettlich 