It is important to take preventive measures to keep your pet healthy and happy this summer. (Image: Shutterstock)
Summers can be way more excruciating and difficult on your furry friends and these measures will help them feel a little eased out
During warm days, our furry friends need extra care to stay cool and comfortable. Just like us, pets can suffer from heat-related issues if not properly cared for during summer.
To ensure your pet stays healthy and happy all season long, here are five essential tips to keep them cool and comfortable.
- Hydration:During the summer months, pets can get dehydrated faster. Water is crucial for regulating their temperature, and if they don’t drink enough water, they might overheat and struggle to stay cool inside. To check if your pet is drinking enough, keep an eye on them. If they drink often, have moist gums and produce clear urine, they’re probably well-hydrated. But if their eyes look sunken, their gums are dry, or their skin is dull, they might be dehydrated. You can also consider adding wet food to their diet. This will help to maintain moisture in their body.
- Protect The Paws: During the summer season, surfaces such as concrete and sand can become quite hot. If pets walk on these surfaces, their paw pads might get burned which can result in blisters and potential infections. So, it is important to take preventive measures. One effective way is to plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late evenings when the ground temperature is cooler.
- Protect From Fleas and Mosquitoes: In summer, parasites like fleas and mosquitoes are more common. Keep your pets safe by using the right flea and tick treatments. Remember that small mammals like Guinea Pigs can be affected too, so it’s essential to seek advice from your vet for proper care and treatment.
- Keep a Check on Signs of Heatstroke: This is a common issue for dogs in warm weather. It occurs when they can’t regulate their body temperature properly. Signs include heavy panting, excessive drooling, red gums, vomiting or diarrhoea, and weakness. If not treated, it can be fatal. So, keep a check on your dog in hot weather, and remember not to leave them alone in the car, even if the windows are open.
- Keep your Home Temperature Cool: Consider setting up fans in different rooms or using air conditioning if you have it. This will help prevent your dog from getting too warm and offer them a cool space to retreat to. Dogs enjoy lying on damp towels or blankets, so providing these for them to rest on can help keep them cool and comfortable.
