Summer is Here: Tips to Protect Your Pets

Summer & Your Pets

Lets face it, summer in Oklahoma can be brutal. Instead of going from a heated house to a heated car like we do in the winter, we go from an air conditioned house to an air conditioned car to keep from the effects of the heat. Our pets feel the same way! We need to protect our beloved pets and help them stay as comfortable in the heat of summer as possible. We also need to keep them safe from other hazards which they will be more exposed to during the summer months. Below are some helpful tips to help you properly care for your pets this summer:

• The summer is the number one season for dog bites due to so many people and dogs being outside. You can reduce the risk of your dog biting through training, socialization, and getting your dog spayed or neutered.

• I know living in Oklahoma it is easy to do this, but the back of a pick-up truck is by no means a safe place for your pet to ride.When driving with pets, be sure to keep them inside your vehicle. You can put them in a carrier or securely in your backseat.

• If you have small pets such as ferrets & bunnies, try to keep them indoors because the heat can cause them major problems with just a small amount of exposure.

• Try to keep your cats inside. Traffic and other animals can be a danger to your feline friends.Giving them toys and other enrichment, your cat will be happy and content to stay indoors with you.

• While preparing to take your dog for a walk on a hot day, plan for shorter walks during peak temperatures and longer walks in the morning and evening when it’s cooler. Pavement can burn the pads on your dog’s paws, so walk on cool areas such as grass & cement when possible.

• Be sure to keep your pets up-to-date on their vaccinations and preventative medications. Fleas and ticks breed in warm weather and summer is the prime time for heart-worms. Check with your vet. about the best way to protect your pets from these elements.

• NEVER leave your pet unattended in your car on a warm or sunny day. Cars quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures and they have no way of getting water or removing themselves from the vehicle.

• When your pets are outside make sure you provide them with a significant source of drinking water. Little wading pools also provide a source for dogs to cool themselves off.