Pet Safety in Warm Weather
Spring may just have started last week, but it was 90 degrees in Phoenix yesterday when we visited our kids for Easter. The hot weather will soon be on us in many parts of the country, which prompted me to write the following reminder.
If you live in a climate that has sticky, hot, summer days, you may find yourself longing for cooler days. Your pet will definitely agree! In warm weather, it is necessary for you to care for your pet’s health so that he or she does not become overheated. Remember, a pet is like a newborn baby—they cannot tell you that they are hot or uncomfortable. You have to notice warning signs and provide a good living environment so that your pet does not get too hot.
When you take your pet places during the summer, never ever let it inside of a parked car, even for a short time. Cars quickly become ovens in the summertime, even when you park in the shade, or even if you have the windows cracked. Your pet will not be able to alert people in order to get out of your car safely. In as little as ten to fifteen minutes, your pet could die from the heat in a parked car, and parking in the shade does little good to prevent this, since the sun continuously moves and the heat of the air alone will be bad for your pet. If your pet will be going with you, make sure they are allowed wherever you will be.
When the heat index is high, keep your pets inside. Pets that are not outdoors most of the time won’t know where the cooler places to hide are, or they may find these cooler places and not return home. Hot asphalt can also wreak havoc on a pet’s health, as it can burn his or her sensitive paw pads. If your pet does go outside, make sure that he or she is let back inside after only a few minutes on the hottest days of the summer. Basically, if it is recommended that seniors and children stay inside, it is good for pets to stay indoors as well.
Keep your pet well groomed during the summer as well. Brushing you pet often will help get rid of the excess hair that has been shed and is weighing down the animal. If your pet has very long hair or is overweight, provide him or her with an air-conditioned room if possible. Preventing overheating is key.
As always, make sure your pet has access to clean, fresh water. This can be tap water, but should be cool and changed multiple times a day when it is hot outside. Your furry friend is very important in your life, so make sure that he or she gets proper care when the summer days make your sweat.
And when it comes time to feeding your pal, be sure it’s Life’s Abundance all natural pet food that you pour in their bowl. They will appreciate it and may live longer, happier lives because of your caring to feed them the best pet food anywhere.
