Lets Get Ready to Go Outside

As the days get longer and warmer it is time to have outdoor fun with our dogs. Long walks, beach days, and car rides are all part of the fun. A little preparation for the warmer temps will help keep our pets comfortable and safe.

When enjoying outdoor time with your pets you can help them beat the heat: Fill a child-size wading pool for your dog to cool off in. Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in 20 minutes.

Provide plenty of cool, fresh water. Avoid exercising dogs strenuously. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings. Avoid exposing your dog to hot pavement or sand for prolonged periods; it can burn paws.

On extremely hot days the best thing for our pets is to stay inside with air conditioning.

We also need to have a plan for our pets when severe weather strikes. Some of the items to have ready for hurricane season: Food and Water Bowls, Food & Water for Five Days, Vet Records, Leash/Harness/Carriers, Litter/Box/Waste Bags, Recent Photo, Medications, Toys, and Blanket.

Our pets are sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and chemical smells. Fourth of July fireworks also cause pets to react in fear. Keep pets comfortable at home and don’t bring them to firework displays. Consider turning on soft music in a room away from windows.

With a little planning, we can ensure that our fourlegged friends enjoy the summer just as much as we do.