Summer is starting to heat up! As the temperatures rise and families gear up for all the fun activities the warmer months provide, you may be looking at ways to involve your pet. Here are some tips for having some fun in the sun this summer and keeping your pets cool and calm.
Summer Outings
With pet-friendly patios, barbecues, and farmer’s markets, there are lots of outdoor activities that your four-legged friend can join you in during the summer. Refresh your pet on basic training commands, such as sit, lie down, leave it, and settle, which will help your pet feel comfortable and safe on your outings.
If you were home most of the winter, cozying up on the couch with your pets, start to slowly transition them to being left alone for more extended periods. If your pet has separation anxiety, these smaller sessions can help them regulate and work on their anxiety. These steps can also help them feel more comfortable staying with friends, family, or boarding facilities if you plan to have a vacation but can’t take them with you.
Pheromones are always a good idea to keep on hand for pets! Spraying a bandana or blanket with pheromones that the pet can wear or carry with them can bring those comforting smells throughout the day.
Swimming Safety
Depending on your pet’s breed and comfort level, you don’t want to assume their swimming abilities. Some stockier breeds, such as bulldogs and pugs, may have a more challenging time swimming than breeds like Labrador retrievers, which are known to love water. Having the right tools and knowledge can help keep your pets afloat and comfortable during their swim:
- Brightly colored life jacket with accessible handle. These can keep your pet visible in areas with boats and other people and are easy to grab and direct if needed.
- Toys can help keep your pets directed to a designated, safe area. You want to avoid toys that sink or become waterlogged to prevent diving and the risk of drowning.
- Be aware of water quality. If you are in a natural body of water, be mindful of bacteria or algae that can be toxic or cause illness, such as blue-green algae or leptospirosis. Be aware of any wildlife that may be present in the area, such as snakes or aggressive fish, depending on your location.
- Have ramps or steps in your pool, and make sure your pet is trained on how to use them so they know how to exit the pool safely. Keep a fence around the pool to ensure your pet does not have unsupervised access to it.
- A bath after swimming is always a good idea, not only for the smell but also to rinse off any chemicals from the pool or water, protecting their skin and coat.
Hot Weather
When temperatures rise, heat stroke and exhaustion can occur quickly in pets. Here’s how to avoid overheating and what to look out for:
- Ensure your pet has access to an ample supply of fresh water throughout the day.
- Be mindful of what time you go for walks. During very hot days, plan your walks for early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler and safer. Take frequent breaks to cool down. Pets who are overweight or belong to short-nosed breeds, such as French Bulldogs or Pugs, are at a higher risk of problems associated with warm-weather exercise. You can consult with your veterinarian to discuss exercise restrictions or options that would be best for your pet.
- If your pet is overheated, you can help them cool down by pouring cool, not cold, water over their head, stomach, and armpits.
- Know the signs of heat stroke. If you think your pet is exhibiting signs of heatstroke, it is critical to act immediately. If you notice these signs, contact a veterinarian immediately after finding a cool area for your pet:
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- Heavy, excessive panting
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- Thick, ropey drool
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- Lethargy
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- Disorientation or confusion
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- Vomiting or diarrhea
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- Bright red or pale gums
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- Collapse or seizures
Smaller pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, cannot regulate their body temperatures effectively on their own and are at a higher risk of overheating. They should be kept in areas of the house that are shaded and cool. If you don’t have an area with air conditioning, you can freeze water bottles and wrap them in a towel or freeze ceramic tiles to place next to them to keep them cool.
It’s important to remember to let your pet set the pace for activities this summer and ensure they are comfortable and safe, regardless of the activity.