Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the warm weather and long sunny days. However, it's important to remember that our pets may not be as equipped to handle the heat as we are. In fact, many pets can suffer from illness or even death if they are not properly protected from the sun and heat. That's why we at Village Vets, a family-owned and run veterinary practice with clinics across Dublin, Meath, and Wicklow, have compiled a list of expert tips to help pet owners keep their furry friends safe and cool this summer.
Stay hydrated:
The first and most important tip is to ensure that your pet stays hydrated. Make sure that they have access to fresh, clean water at all times, and consider adding ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cool and refreshing on hot days. Secondly, never leave your pet in a hot car, try to avoid this at any cost as it can be incredibly deadly to your pet. If you must leave your pet in the car make sure to leave them water and have your window rolled down just enough for fresh air, but not enough for them to escape! It's best to be wary of conservatories or greenhouses too, as the temperature inside can quickly become suffocating and even deadly.
Never leave pets in hot cars!
The temperature inside a car parked in the hot summer sun can present a risk of death. Even if the temperature outside is bearable, inside the car can be suffocating. So, never leave your pet in a closed parked car, conservatory, or greenhouse.
Protect their paws:
Another important consideration is to protect your pet's paws. Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws and overheat its body. Avoid walking your dog at the hottest time of the day – often morning and later in the evening can be cooler. Be sure not to overwalk them and bring plenty of fresh water for them to drink.
Apply suncream:
Animals can also suffer from sunburn, so be sure to apply sun cream to the tips of their ears and other exposed areas when you see the sun come out. Cats, in particular, are susceptible to sunburn, as they love to lounge in the midday sun. So get out the factor fifty
Create a cool space:
Finally, provide a shaded area for your pet to rest in during the hottest parts of the day, and consider using a damp towel or cooling mat to help them cool down.
At Village Vets, we are committed to helping pet owners keep their furry friends safe and healthy, no matter the season. As summer approaches, it's important to be aware of the risks that hot weather can pose to pets, from sunburn to heatstroke. By following these tips, you can help protect your pet and ensure they have a comfortable and enjoyable summer. And as always, if you have any concerns about your pet's health, don't hesitate to contact us.
Remember, your pet relies on you to keep them safe and healthy, so take the necessary precautions to protect them from the summer sun.
