The temperatures are high, the sun is shining, and it is peak time to have fun outdoors with your pet. In the dog days of summer, though, keeping pets cool is key. Adobe Animal Hospital has some top veterinary advice for the summer heat to help you and your pets enjoy it without issue.

Summer Pet Care

With the warm weather comes some special summer pet care considerations. While proactive pet care is important no matter the time of the year, during this time we need to pay special attention to:

• Parasite prevention: Higher temperatures means more activity from things like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Ask us about how you can best protect your pet.
• Grooming habits: A well-groomed coat can help keep pets cooler. Never shave down a double-coated pet as their undercoat can help insulate against heat and protect them from the sun’s rays. Rather, a clean and mat-free coat is the way to go! Also be sure to rinse down your pet with clean water after a dip in the pool, lake, or the ocean, and clean ears with a drying cleanser after water exposure. 
• Sun exposure: Pets can get sunburned just like we can. Keep them out of direct sunlight—especially during the most intense parts of the day. Consider a pet-safe sunscreen for pets with light or short coats and less pigment in vulnerable areas like the ears and nose. UV protective pet clothing can also be helpful.  
• Other critters: If you and your pet are more active, you can bet that other critters are as well. In particular, be cautious of snakes and other reptiles who may be sunning themselves in the sunshine. It is wise to be sure that your pet is up to date on wellness care and vaccines in case of an encounter with wild animals or other pets. 

Heat Stroke in Pets

Pets who become overheated may develop heat stroke, a life threatening condition that occurs when body temperatures remain too high for too long. Without intervention, these increased temperatures can lead to shock, organ failure, seizures, and even death. 

Any animal is at risk, but in particular, those who cannot cool themselves as efficiently may overheat easier. This includes any brachycephalic breed like bulldogs, pugs, and boxers, but also very young animals, senior animals, and those with existing heart or breathing conditions. 

In the early stages, heat stroke in pets often looks like excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and possibly vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your pet may be overheating, move them to a cool area and contact us right away. Heat stroke in pets is an emergency. 

Tips for Keeping Pets Cool

Keeping your pet cool in the summer months is key, as heat stroke is a serious problem that should be avoided at all costs. Make sure that the summer months are safe and fun by:

• Keeping your pets indoors during the hottest part of the day
• Making sure your pet has enough to drink with our best pet hydration tips. These include: being sure fresh, cool water is available at all times, and upping water intake with canned food or frozen treats like a frozen Kong or flavored ice cubes
• Providing access to a cool shelter at all times
• Keeping your pets off hot surfaces like pavement and sand
• Never leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle
• Busting out the misters and lawn sprinklers
• Providing a wading pool (just be sure to always supervise pets around water)

No matter how you choose to spend your summer, make sure that your pets are safe and cool by taking some extra precautions. We love to see you, but we would rather it not be for an emergency!

The post Keeping Your Pets Cool and Safe During the Dog Days of Summer appeared first on Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center.