Healthy Pets Are Happy Pets

Paying close attention to your pets during hot summer weather is essential to their health and well-being, as well as yours! These summer safety tips for your furry friend will help keep them healthy and happy, thus reducing chance of reactive bites or attacks. 

1. Keep them hydrated! Be sure your pets have access to fresh, cool water. This applies all year round, but especially in summer heat!
2. Keep it shady! Pets that are outdoors for an extended period of time need plenty of access to shade. Check on them regularly throughout the day as shady spots change with the sun’s position.
3. Keep it relaxed! Be careful not to over exercise your pet in the heat of the day.
4. Keep it safe! Never leave your pet unattended in a parked vehicle. Heat strokes can happen very quickly!
5. Keep it cool! Be careful when walking pets on hot pavement. Paw pads are sensitive and can burn.
6. Keep them healthy! Preventative veterinary care is best. It is recommended to get cats and dogs heartworm tested every spring and keep them on preventative mediations for heartworm and flea and ticks.
7. Keep aware! Your surroundings can pose safety risks to humans or pets – check to be sure windows are closed or have screens and be attentive around swimming pools or open water. Also know the table foods your pet can safely eat, and be attentive to what they are eating. 
8. Keep them groomed! Trimming hair on feet, cleaning ears and regular coat brushing are important to keep pets cool and healthy. Mats can quickly form in long-haired pets, ears can become dirty and harbor bacteria and bugs, and long hair on feet can collect debris from outside. 

A healthy pet is a happy pet!