The hot summer months can be tough on your pet. Dogs and cats cannot sweat so it is hard for them to regulate their temperature. There are several ways that you can help your pet keep cool. Some animals with long, thick fur can be shaved down during the summer. They may look a little funny, but this really helps cool them off. Also here at Pet Supplies “Plus” we carry several different cooling bandanas that can be soaked in water and also frozen to help cool them down as well. Be sure to keep plenty of cool fresh water available at all times for your pet. (I like to put ice cubes in it.) And NEVER leave them in the car during the hot summer months because the temperature in your car almost doubles when the windows are left closed in a car without the air conditioning on. Be sure that when you are walking your pet that their nose is moist and cool. If your pet is panting profusely and has a hot dry nose he or she may be overheating. I recommend not walking your pet during the peak hot hours of the day. Trying these suggestions and making sure your animal is not overheated will make this summer cooler and healthier for your pet.
Amanda T, CPNA
Monday, July 26, 2010
HOT Summer Weather
ALWAYS make sure your pets have plenty of cool water throughout the day. Remember, animals can get overheated just like people do. Even if you have indoor animals like cats, hamsters or birds they will need to keep hydrated in the heat of summer. If you have outdoor pets like dogs or even farm animals, be sure to have a place for them to get out of the sun. A nice shady spot under some trees is ideal for dogs. You can also purchase or construct a "house" or shelter for your pets to escape to and keep cool. Here are a couple of tips to keep your pets safe in HOT summer weather.
• Always available water Secure the water dish to avoid an accidental spill. You may also want to consider adding another water bowl or two in your pet's area, just in case.
• Ouch - hot feet alert If you will be walking with your pet, remember that while paw pads are "tough" they are also sensitive, and can be burned while walking on hot pavement and tar. If possible, walk on grass or dirt, and check your pet's paw pads to make sure there isn't any redness or pain.
• Good grooming is important for your pet's health and comfort. Speak with a groomer or veterinarian to find out what is best for your pet. A full shave may not be the answer, depending on your pet's coat/breed, and caution is advised for white and light-skinned pets getting sunburned.
• Consider a cooling dog bed. When hot weather arrives, dogs sometimes abandon their comfy beds to seek out cold spots on tile or hardwood floors. But if you want your dog to enjoy that coolness and still have the comfort of a dog bed, you could buy a cooling dog bed. Some cooling beds can be filled with water, which is then circulated through the inside of the bed to keep it cool.
• Ice cream treats or Ice Treats – Many companies now offer Dog Ice Cream or Frozen treats for your pets. So when it’s a hot day outside, remember don’t forget about your furry friends they would probably enjoy a nice cool treat to help cool them down.
Caleb L, CPNA
• Always available water Secure the water dish to avoid an accidental spill. You may also want to consider adding another water bowl or two in your pet's area, just in case.
• Ouch - hot feet alert If you will be walking with your pet, remember that while paw pads are "tough" they are also sensitive, and can be burned while walking on hot pavement and tar. If possible, walk on grass or dirt, and check your pet's paw pads to make sure there isn't any redness or pain.
• Good grooming is important for your pet's health and comfort. Speak with a groomer or veterinarian to find out what is best for your pet. A full shave may not be the answer, depending on your pet's coat/breed, and caution is advised for white and light-skinned pets getting sunburned.
• Consider a cooling dog bed. When hot weather arrives, dogs sometimes abandon their comfy beds to seek out cold spots on tile or hardwood floors. But if you want your dog to enjoy that coolness and still have the comfort of a dog bed, you could buy a cooling dog bed. Some cooling beds can be filled with water, which is then circulated through the inside of the bed to keep it cool.
• Ice cream treats or Ice Treats – Many companies now offer Dog Ice Cream or Frozen treats for your pets. So when it’s a hot day outside, remember don’t forget about your furry friends they would probably enjoy a nice cool treat to help cool them down.
Caleb L, CPNA
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