Take Extra Precautions to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Heat!

Limit outside time: Asphalt gets hot FAST! Place your hand on the pavement for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand on, it’s too hot for your pets to walk on. You don’t want to burn their paws! When the weather is hot, limit the amount of activity you and your pets do outside. Shortening the time they are exercising and doing it early in the morning or late in the evening is the best way to help prevent overheating.

Beware of hot cars: NEVER leave your pet alone in a vehicle, as it can be deadly in the heat. Leaving your furry friend in a hot car, even just for 10 minutes, can cause their organs to shut down. In 85 degree weather, a car can hit 100 degrees in minutes.

Know the symptoms of overheating in pets: Extreme temperatures can cause overheating. Some signs of overheating include heavy panting or difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, seizures, and collapse. Some breeds of dogs—like Boxers, Pugs, and other dogs and cats with short muzzles—will have a much harder time breathing in extreme heat.

Hydration and shade are key: Always give your pet access to shade when outside, and always give them access to water. They need to stay hydrated, and being in the heat can wear their bodies out. 

Remember that some summer foods and beverages are toxic to pets: Foods like grapes, onions, raisins, and chocolate should be avoided at all costs, and make sure to keep alcoholic beverages away from pets. All of these can be harmful to your furry friends.

Do not leave pets unsupervised by a pool: Not all dogs are good swimmers. When near water, always make sure your pet is leashed or has a proper water floatation device on. Introduce your pets to water gradually.

Keep your pets inside: You can provide enrichment for your pets while staying inside where it's cool. Keep walks limited and short when it's extremely hot outside. Your pets will thank you!

Never shave your dog: Dogs have layers to their coats that help prevent them from overheating and sunburn. Feel free to trim the longer hair, but never leave them bare. Brushing cats more frequently can help prevent problems caused by overheating.