Summer safety tips for pets

Summer Safety Tips

In the hot weather, limit the amount of time your cat or dog is in the sun during peak hours

Here are more safety tips for cats and dogs:

1. Riding together. If you are driving around with your dog or cat in the car, bring cold water and a water dish. Also, it’s not a good idea to drive around with your dog in the bed of a truck because the hot metal can burn paws quickly and they can easily be injured in an accident.  
2. Parked vehicles. Never leave your pet alone in a parked car. It only takes MINUTES for a pet to develop heat stroke and suffocate in a car. On a 75 degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 90 degrees in the shade and 160 degrees if parked directly in the sun.
3. Walking outside. When the sun is cooking, surfaces like asphalt or metal can get really hot. Try to keep your pet off of hot asphalt; not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating.
4. Water and shade. Do your best to keep your furry friend cool and comfortable when you’re out and about. If you and your pet are out in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure there’s plenty of water available to avoid dehydration. Also, get your pet into the shade as much as possible.
5. Sunscreen. Never use sunscreens that contain zinc oxide on your dog. If ingested, it can damage your dog’s red blood cells, causing them to explode. The resulting anemia can be severe. 

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