Summer is on the way … or, in this corner of the country, it’s already here. As the hottest part of the year approaches, pet owners will need to pay extra attention to their furry friends. The heat can be very dangerous to Fido and Fluffy! A local Seminole, FL vet discusses some common mistakes in this article.
Pets overheat very quickly when temperatures soar. Keep that in mind when walking and playing with your four-legged buddy. Don’t encourage your pet to overexert themself around the middle of the day, when it’s hottest. Time the majority of his walks for morning and evening. (If possible, wait until after it rains.)
This one isn’t quite as relevant here in Florida, as our weather doesn’t fluctuate as much as it does in places with colder climates. That said, you may need to make a few tweaks to Fido and Fluffy’s menu during the hottest part of the year. Ask your vet for specific advice.
We can’t overstate how dangerous heat can be for Fluffy and Fido. Never ever leave your furry pal in a locked car, even for just a few minutes. (The only exception here is if you have a vehicle with a pet mode.) It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of overheating. These include things like panting, dark or decreased urine, drooling, stumbling, a warm back, and discolored gums. If you notice any of these red flags, immediately take steps to cool your four-legged buddy down. Spritz them with water and point a fan on them, hold them in front of a freezer, or put a bag of frozen veggies between their legs. Contact your vet for further instructions as you are doing this, as your pet may need emergency care.
Pools and beaches can be very dangerous places for pets. Even dogs that are great swimmers can get into trouble quickly in strong currents. After all, Fido is over his head in just a few feet of water! If you take your canine pal to the beach, choose a pet-friendly spot, somewhere that doesn’t have strong currents, steep dropoffs, or heavy wakes. Supervise your pooch carefully when he is around water.
Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your local Seminole, FL pet hospital, today!
