Summer Heat Safety for Pets
Practical Summer Safety Tips From Dr. Dave’s Doggy Daycare
Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your furry friend. However, it’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind during the warm weather months. At Dr. Dave’s Doggy Daycare, Boarding & Grooming, we care about your pet’s well-being and want to help keep them safe this summer. Here are some summer safety tips for pet owners in Saratoga, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Mountain View, San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Willow Glen, CA.
Common Summer Hazards for Pets Outdoors
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it can also be dangerous for your pet. Here are some common summer hazards and how to avoid them:
- Heatstroke: Due to their lack of sweat glands on their paws and belly, dogs are more prone to heatstroke than cats. Do not leave your dog in the heat if they’re panting heavily or drooling excessively! During hot weather, you should also keep an eye on your cat. If they seem strange (such as hiding under furniture), take them inside right away.
- Sunburn: Getting sunburned is not just a problem for humans! If it is sunny out all day long, reapply sunscreen every few hours (which means several times) when going outside with your pet. Using sunscreen that’s safe for humans also works for dogs and cats. Just make sure it doesn’t contain zinc oxide, since zinc oxide can cause irritation when applied directly to the skin.
Always Keep Your Pet Hydrated
Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to stay hydrated during hot weather. Make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water at all times, especially when they’re spending time outdoors. Consider bringing a water bottle and collapsible bowl with you when you’re out and about with your furry friend.
Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a short amount of time. On a hot day, the temperature inside a car can quickly rise to dangerous levels, even with the windows cracked. This can cause heatstroke, which can be deadly for pets.
Be Mindful of Hot Pavement
Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paw pads, causing pain and discomfort. Before taking your furry friend for a walk, test the pavement temperature with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot for your pet to walk on it. Consider walking your dog during the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
Provide Outdoor Shade and Shelter
If your pet spends time outdoors, make sure they have access to shade and shelter. This can include a covered porch, tree, or umbrella. Consider setting up a kiddie pool or misting station to help your pet stay cool.
Protect Your Pet From Parasites
Summer is a prime time for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These parasites can transmit diseases and cause discomfort for your furry friend. Protect your pet by using flea and tick prevention medication and applying mosquito repellent when necessary.
Never Leave Your Pet Unsupervised Near Water
While many dogs love to swim, it’s important to never leave your pet unsupervised near water. This includes pools, lakes, and oceans. Not all dogs are strong swimmers, and accidents can happen quickly. Consider investing in a life jacket for your furry friend if they’ll be spending time in the water.
Always Be Prepared for Emergencies
Accidents can happen, even when you’re taking all the necessary precautions to keep your pet safe. Make sure you’re prepared for emergencies by having a first aid kit on hand and knowing where the nearest emergency vet clinic is located. Keep important phone numbers, such as your veterinarian’s contact information, easily accessible.
At Dr. Dave’s Doggy Daycare, we understand that your pet’s safety is a top priority. We offer a safe and secure environment for your furry friend to play and socialize with other dogs. Our experienced staff members are trained in pet safety and first aid with our doggy daycare, and we have emergency procedures in place to handle any unexpected situations.
Why Choose Dr. Dave’s Doggy Daycare?
At Dr. Dave’s Doggy Daycare, we love dogs and are dedicated to providing them with the best possible care. We have been helping dogs in the area for years, from simple daycare to training and boarding. Our facility is clean, safe, and secure – you can trust us to take good care of your pet while they play with their friends! Contact us today for our doggy daycare services in the Saratoga and Campbell areas.