First and foremost, never leave pets of any kind in a vehicle! Even in the shade with the windows open! Your car can become like an oven and deadly, reaching temperatures over 100 degrees in a few short minutes! And it doesn't take long for a pet to succumb to that kind of heat.
If you are a walker try to get out before 10:00 a.m. or in the evening to avoid overheating. Decks, Sidewalks and pavement become absolutely scorching and can burn your dog's paw pads!
It's also important to bring along water for you and your pet any time of day. There are lots of bottle carriers on the market. This one has a place for a collapsible water bowl for your dog. These are fashionable as well as functional.
If your pet likes to hang outside even for a short time make sure they have shade and access to fresh water.
When the weather heats up, it's important to take steps to help our pets stay cool. Today I have hot weather safety tips for your pets.
Your indoor pets can also be at risk from the summer heat….Keep an eye on Tropical fish and gold fish in bowls. Fish should never be placed in direct sunlight and never on a window sill in summer or winter.
Make sure rabbits and guinea pigs have plenty of fresh cool water, a shady place to hide and are kept out of direct sunlight.
If you notice excessive panting or disorientation in any species of pet get them some water to drink, pour cool, not cold, water over the back of their neck and into the shade fast and if they continue to pant heavily, vomit or go limp get to your vet or vet emergency hospital ASAP. Heat stroke can be deadly!
To help keep your indoor pets cool and comfy, close the blinds when you are not at home and make sure to give your pets fresh water every day, even a few ice cubes in their dish can be a nice refreshing surprise.