The summer months can be very difficult for cats and dogs. When humans are hot in the summer, they can shed a layer of clothing to cool off. Animals cannot do this. It is up to their owner to make sure that they are as cool and comfortable during the hot, summer months.
Don’t Leave Your Pet in the Car
If a pet owner is going to run errands during the summer, they should consider leaving their pet at home. Even when it is 75 degrees outside, the temperature in the car can reach 115 degrees. This is far too hot for a pet. Even if the pet seems to want to go for a ride in the car, they will be more comfortable at home.
Avoid Walking on Hot Asphalt
On a hot, sunny day, the temperature of the asphalt can get incredibly hot. Because pets don’t wear shoes, it can be harmful when they walk on the hot asphalt. Their only protection is the pads on their feet, which can be burned. The safest way to walk a pet on a hot day is to alternate between asphalt and grass, keeping their paws from burning.
Keep a Source of Cold, Fresh Water
Like humans, animals need a source of fresh, cold water to keep their body temperature down. If the water is warm, the cat or dog will be less likely to drink it. The owner should change the water twice a day, and put a few ice cubes in it to keep it cold. If the owner is taking their pet out, they should take a bowl and bottled water with them, so that the pet can drink while they are out.
Don’t Over Exercise the Pet
Most pets don’t know their limits. If their owner is playing with them and they are having fun, they won’t stop even if they are getting overheated. If an owner is going to play with their pet outside, they should only do so for a short period of time. The best time of day to do this is when the sun is setting. When it comes to walks, they should be short if they are taken at the hottest times of the day.
Pets can become dehydrated faster than humans. It is important that pet owners know how to keep their animals cool, so that they can be comfortable on hot, summer days.
