10 Tips to Help Your Pet Beat the Heat!
Fun In The Sun — Warm weather can be tough on our furry friends. Keep these tips in mind when it’s hot outside:
- Always provide plenty of cool, clean water for your animal. When away from home, carry a thermos with fresh water.
- Leave your pets at home as much as possible. While you may think they will be lonely, they will be much more comfortable in your cool home than riding in a hot car.
- If you must take your pet along for the ride, don’t leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows open, a parked car can quickly become deadly. If the temperature outside is 80 degrees, the temperature inside your car can easily climb to 120 degrees.
- In extremely hot weather, don’t leave your dog standing on the street, and keep walks to a minimum. Your canine companion is much closer to the hot asphalt and their body can heat up quickly. Paws can also burn on hot asphalt or concrete. If you’re going to be on hot pavement, consider bringing along a towel or blanket for your dog to rest on, giving their pads a break from the sweltering heat. Be sure to allow for plenty of breaks and find shady spots to cool off.
- Don’t force your animal to exercise in hot, humid weather. Exercise your pet in the cool of the early morning or evening.
- Dogs can get sunburned too — don’t forget to protect hairless and light-coated dogs with sunscreen.
- Always provide plenty of shade for an animal staying outside the house. Bring your pet inside during the heat of the day and let them rest in a cool part of your house. If you take your dog to the beach or park, make sure you can provide a shaded spot for resting.
- A clean coat can help to prevent skin problems from the sun and heat, so keep your pet well groomed.
- Take your companion animal to the veterinarian for an annual checkup or when sick or injured. Have the doctor recommend a safe, effective flea and tick control program.
- Be alert for the signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red tongue. If you believe your pet is suffering from heat exhaustion, contact your veterinarian right away — it could save your pet's life.
More resources:
- If you see an animal in a car, call San Diego Humane Society at 619-299-7012 or your local law enforcement agency for assistance.
- Tips for exercising with your pet in warm weather
Published: June 8, 2021
