Beat the Heat with These Summer Pet Safety Tips

It can get toasty down here in North Carolina, which is bad enough for us. For our pets with fur coats, the summer heat can quickly become unbearable, and leave your companion vulnerable to heatstroke. In addition to intense heat, thunderstorms and fireworks are also a concern due to the noise they create, which can be terrifying for noise-averse pets.

Please use these tips to make sure your pet is safe, healthy, and happy this summer:

  • Don’t wait for a heat advisory to take action. Keep your pet cool and hydrated throughout the day and avoid leaving them unattended outdoors without adequate shade and water. You can also set out a small wading pool for your pet to relax in.

 

  •  During the present pandemic, we would be remiss not to add that if you or someone in your home or social circle has contracted COVID -19 please keep your pets isolated from them if possible. If you are sick the AVMA and CDC recommend you ask someone else in your home to care for your pets. If that is not possible do avoid holding them close, kissing them, and most of all coughing around them.

 

  • The latest information from the American Veterinary Medical Association states,” During the first five months of the COVID-19 outbreak …fewer than 10 pets have tested positive, with confirmation, for SARS-CoV-2 globally. This despite the fact that as of May 21, the number of infected people exceeded 5 million globally and 1.5 million in the United States. There have been fewer than twenty reports from around the world of pets (dogs and cats) being infected with SARS-CoV-2; however, none of these reports suggest that pets are a source of infection for people. Evidence to date from the few domestic animals that have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 indicate these infections are typically a result of close contact with people with COVID-19”

 

  • Never leave your dog or cat alone in the car while you run errands—even just a few minutes can be dangerous. Temperatures can increase by 15-20 degrees in about 10 minutes.

 

  • Signs of heatstroke in a pet include lethargy, heavy panting and drooling, abnormally high body temperature, and bright red gums. If your pet is showing these signs, bring them in to see us immediately.

 

  • Take your pet for walks early in the morning or at dusk. Pavement can become extremely hot and burn your pet’s feet. Additionally, keep their outdoor activity to a minimum and always have water on hand for them.

 

  • Severe weather is common this time of year. If your pet becomes anxious before and during thunderstorms, make sure they have a registered microchip and updated ID tags on their collar. These are important items to have if you’re worried that they might run away and get lost during a storm. This also applies for fireworks. We suggest trying other options to keep your pet calm, too—this may include medication, therapy, or some other method, like a Thundershirt.

 

Have questions for our team about helping your pet enjoy a safe summer? Let us know at (704) 893-2799!