Good Morning Friends!
Here we are at the end of another week and the start of the weekend is just hours away! Summer is definitely here in Las Vegas and it has been quite hot here and monsoon season is also here and that means humidity along with hot temperatures and that got me thinking, how should pet parents take of us during the summer months. So, off to mama's computer to research this and here is what I found:
Summer Dog & Cat Safety Tips
Summer is here, and that means there are some important things to think about when it comes to your pets. Warm weather can be dangerous for our pets. It’s hard for pets to keep cool when the sun is beating down, and that’s because animals don’t sweat like people do. You probably knew that dogs cool themselves through panting, but did you know that they sweat through their paws too? When there is only hot air for a dog to breathe, it’s a lot harder for that dog to keep cool.
While cats tend tolerate heat a little better than dogs, and even prefer it, but that doesn’t mean that you should forget about your cat this summer! Read on to learn some important summer safety tips for dogs and cats:
NEVER, EVER Leave Your Pet in a Hot Car
It can take minutes – yes, MINUTES – for a pet to develop heat stroke and suffocate in a car. Most people don’t realize how hot it gets in parked cars. On a 78-degree day, for instance, temperatures in a car can reach 90 degrees in the shade and top 160 degrees if parked directly in the sun! Your best bet is to leave your pet home on warm/hot days. If you are driving around with your dog or cat in the car, bring water and a water dish and take your pet with you when you leave the car.
Keep Their Paws in Mind
When the sun is cooking, surfaces like asphalt or metal can get really hot! Try to keep your pet off of hot asphalt; not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating. Also, it’s not a good idea to drive around with your dog in the bed of a truck – the hot metal can burn paws quickly (and they can fall out or be injured or killed in an accident).
Water & Shade
Do your best to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable when you are out and about. If you and your pet are out in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure there’s plenty of water available to avoid dehydration. Also, get your pet into the shade as much as possible.
Haircuts
If you have a pet with a thick coat, consider a haircut! One inch is a good length to avoid sunburn (yes, pets can get sunburns too) and also keep your pet cool.
This One is for the Cats
Keep your windows screened! We all know cats love windowsills. You may want your house to be ventilated, but you definitely do not want your kitty to fall out!
Stay Safe at Barbeques
Backyard barbeques are a lot of fun, but the food and drinks offered can be bad for pets. Keep your pets away from alcohol and foods like grapes, onions, and chocolate.
Keep Your Pets Away From Fireworks
The dangers are obvious – pets are at risk for fatal injuries and painful burns if they are allowed to run around freely when fireworks are being used. Some fireworks also contain chemicals toxic to pets like potassium nitrate and arsenic. Not to mention, the loud noises can be frightening and disturbing to pets (remember, their hearing is many times better than ours).
And perhaps the most important thing to remember is to pay attention to your dog and cat – you will know when they seem uncomfortable, or they might be in some trouble. Summer can be a great time to spend with your dog or cat, but it’s important to keep these tips in mind as the days grow longer!
That's all I have for you this week, I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and I will bark with you all next week and remember, adopt, don't shop!
