5 Tips for Keeping Your Pet Cool In The Summer Heat

Winter is no longer coming. Summer is coming. And, as we have pointed out in a previous blog post, this means taking steps to stay safe in the summer heat. As we discussed, this means learning the importance of proper sunscreen usage. But staying safe in the sun is not just for you and me. The sun’s rays can take their toll on our non-human cousins as well.

As an online health store, our mission is to provide products that improve your overall well-being. This includes the well-being of our beloved pets. So, in this post we will look at five strategies for keeping our pets cool and protected during the summer heat. Meanwhile, the Online Drugstore has a variety of pet products that will give our fur babies a better life. Visit your online health store today!

1. Don’t Play Too Hard On Hot Days

When you step outside and feel the warmth against your skin, the siren song of doing some serious summer activities can be overwhelming. And what better way to spend these beautiful days than in the company of our pets?

This can be great, but be mindful of the temperature. On days where it’s extremely toasty outside, it might be best to keep your dog’s (or cat’s or llama’s or naked mole rat’s) exercise to a minimum. Especially with dogs, their excitement over getting to run free in the dog park can take over and they will exercise to a point of exhaustion, risking overheating and dehydration. Speaking of dehydration…

2. Keep Your Pet Hydrated

As you go on your summer adventures, be sure to bring along lots of water (or go places where you will have lots of access to water)! Of course, this goes just as much for you as it does your pet. A quick path to feeling the negative consequences of the summer heat is to go without water. Dehydration can be extremely dangerous.

3. Don’t EVER Leave Your Pet in the Car

This should go without saying, but don’t leave your pet in a parked car. Not even for one minute. Many people make the mistaken assumption that leaving them in the car with the windows cracked, or even with the A/C running will keep them safe. Don’t risk it. The heat inside a car goes up extremely fast. This can lead to irreversible damage, even death.

4. Pay Attention to Humidity

Humidity will play a role in how much our pets feel the heat. According to the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, "Animals pant to evaporate moisture from their lungs, which takes heat away from their body. If the humidity is too high, they are unable to cool themselves, and their temperature will skyrocket to dangerous levels—very quickly."

5. Look Out For Heatstroke

Pay attention to your pets on hot days. Take note of their behaviors. There can be subtle and not-so-subtle signs that your pet needs to get out of the sun. If it gets bad, there are even signs that your pet may be having symptoms of heatstroke. This can include the following:

• Excessive Panting
• Excessive Thirst
• Rapid Heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Difficulty Breathing
• Vomiting
• Tongue Discoloration
• Glazed Eyes
• Lack of Coordination

If you notice any of these signs, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Your Online Health Store

As you prepare to venture out into the summer sun, be sure to take appropriate precautions for you and your pets. Visit our online health store to get everything you need to make this summer full of unforgettable memories.