With the summer season in full swing, now is an excellent time for cookouts, picnics, beach trips, and hiking excursions. Unfortunately, hot summer days can be dangerous for companion animals. As the temperature rises, it is crucial to know how to keep your canine companion or feline friend safe from harm. At Stoneridge Animal Hospital, protecting pets is our passion. Learn how to protect your pet with these safety tips from a skilled vet near Witcher.

Don't Take Your Pet With You

Your pet may love car rides, but you shouldn't leave them sitting in your car in hot weather. Home is the best place for them. Within half an hour, the temperature in your car can soar to a blistering 120° on an 85° day. Cracking your windows won't provide any real benefit, nor will parking away from direct sunlight. Leaving the car running with the AC turned on isn't really a good strategy, either. Even new vehicles can break down, and it's possible for pets left alone in vehicles to unintentionally turn off the air conditioner or even bump the car out of park. Leaving a dog or cat in a car can be deadly. Don’t risk it.

Keep Them Well-Hydrated

Pets should have round-the-clock access to water. This is even more crucial during the summer months, though. Like you, your furry friend needs more hydration when the weather warms up. Ensure that their water bowl at home is always full of clean, cool water. Bring along a container of water and a collapsible dish when walking your dog, too. 

Don't Walk on Hot Pavement

Pavement gets hot fast during the summer months and can cause serious burns to your pet’s paw pads. Black asphalt can be up to 60° hotter than the ambient temperature. As a result, serious burns can occur within one minute of contact. When possible, it is best to walk your dog on grass when it’s hot. If walking on a paved surface is your only option, use your hand to see how hot it is. If it’s too warm to hold your hand on it for approximately 10 seconds, it is too hot for your dog to walk on. Purchasing a pair of booties for your dog is a great way to protect their paws when walking on hot pavement is a must. 

Keep Your Pet Up-to-Date on Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Preventatives from a Vet near Witcher

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes - which carry heartworm -  are most prevalent in the summer. Scheduling an appointment with a vet near Witcher is the best way to keep your pet up to date on safe and effective flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives.

If your pet needs a vet near Witcher, we'd love to lend a hand. Reach out to our friendly team now to schedule your fur baby's appointment at Stoneridge Animal Hospital.