We are truly in the dog days of summer and our pets are particularly susceptible to heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition. In fact, Trupanion, a medical insurance for cats and dogs, sees 333% more claims relating to heatstroke during summer months.
For many pet parents who may have brought a new puppy or kitten into their home during the pandemic, this may be their first time experiencing the affects that heat can have on a pet. With that in mind, it is important to heed the warning signs of heat stroke, which include:
- Panting or drooling excessively
- Weakness or dizziness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Dark red gums
- Glazed eyes
- Rapid heart rate
Heat stroke is an emergency condition and if you suspect that your pet is experiencing extreme heat you should move them to a cooler area and call your veterinarian immediately.
Pets are especially at risk in hot cars
Studies have shown that when the temperature outside reaches 85 degrees it quickly turns to nearly 120 degrees in our cars. Even when the temperature outside is a comfortable 70 degrees the inside of a car can top 100 degrees in only 30 minutes.
With that in mind, it is important to never leave your pet unattended in the car, even with a window cracked.
Other tips on how to keep pets cool in summer
- Limit time outdoors. If it’s too warm for you to enjoy, there’s a chance it’s too warm for your furry best friend
- Plan walks accordingly. Plan your walks, that way you’re not walking at the hottest part for your day.
- Stick to the shade. The pavement, asphalt, and sidewalks can heat up very quickly on a hot day. Consider walking or dog in the grass or toss the ball in the shade.
- Provide cool pet care accessories. Consider a cooling vest for your pets or keep a portable misting fan with you.
- Protect your pup’s paws. Consider dog booties. Shoes, sox, or paw pad wax. Bear in mind, every pet is different and might not initially take to wearing footwear.
- Be wary of the sun and UV rays. Protection is a key factor to exposure to UV rays. A sunscreen might be an option for pets with shorter fur
- Hydration is essential for your furry friends. Consider supplying room temperate water and keep water with you at all times for your best friend.
Create a Dream Yard
People have been using their backyards more in recent years for everything from working and entertaining to vacationing and working out. But for dogs, this backyard business is old hat.
“No one loves the family yard as much as the family dog,” notes Kris Kiser, President of the TurfMutt Foundation, an organization that advocates for the care for and use of green spaces, as well as pet rescue. “It’s my rescue dog, Mulligan’s, favorite place to be, so I do everything I can to make it safe and enjoyable for her, which ultimately makes it better for me, too.”
Kiser and Mulligan have advice for creating a dream yard for your pets and the whole family this summer:
Plant Real Grass
Plastic grass is uncomfortable on paws (and bare feet), gets very hot during the summer, is difficult to clean, and is worse for the environment since it requires water for cleaning and usually can’t be recycled. The bottom line: real grass is the best option for pets, people and the environment.
Select the Right Plants & Grasses
Choose a type of turf grass that will withstand the “ruff” housing of your pet. Buffalo and Bermuda grasses can be a good choice, depending on your climate zone. For other plants and shrubs, check the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic garden plants for advice before planting. You’ll want soft, sturdy foliage near walkways. Save delicate, decorative flowers for elevated flowerbeds and patio pots. Pro tip: place plants close together in areas you want to designate as off-limits to your dog to create boundaries.
Consider Pollinators & Other Wildlife
Nature starts in your backyard, which provides habitat and food for birds, butterflies, bees and more. Each of these species help pollinate food crops and flowering plants, so take them into consideration, too, when you’re selecting plants for your backyard.
Plan for Fun
Add a splash pool, build a sandbox for digging or even create a canine obstacle course to provide hours of fun. After a day of play, your dog will need a place to relax so think of where you can plant trees or bushes that provide shade for snoozing.
Check out Shop LC for more ways to pamper your pet!
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