Pet Care in Warm Weather
The warm weather is upon us and with it comes the need for increased vigilance in the care of our pets. Our faithful friends have a much harder time cooling their bodies during times of high heat and humidity and are highly susceptible to heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal for pets just like humans; hence it is imperative that we provide the following to keep them safe and comfortable.
Fresh, clean, cool water:
A basic need at all times, water becomes even more important during hot weather. Offer your pet several watering stations so that water is always nearby. If you like “high tech” items, automatic watering systems that connect directly to a garden hose or stand-alone watering stations that circulate water through a filter are available from pet catalogs. For those of us who are more “old fashioned,” stainless steel buckets and bowls work just fine. Regardless of the method used, ensure that the system is clean and sanitary.
During times of extreme heat consider treating your friend by adding some ice cubes to his water. Made-for-pets popsicles and ice cream are also available if you enjoy “spoiling” your pals.
Ample shade and air flow:
A plastic or wood dog house sitting in the back yard with no natural shade is NOT adequate during hot weather. Such structures act more like an oven than a shelter. In order for your pet to stay cool he needs both shade and flowing air.
If your yard has no shade trees or high bushes, you must provide shade using tarps and/or canopies. Tarps are available at most hardware stores and outdoor pet beds with built-on canopies are available from most pet catalogs. If your pet spends long periods of time outdoors, ensure that shade is available at all times as the sun moves across the sky.
Trees or tall shrubs and bushes are excellent shade providers. Consider planting leafy varieties to increase the shade available for your pets; you’ll be helping the environment and your pets at the same time.
Give them a pool:
Most dogs enjoy streams and creeks. Even if your pup doesn’t like fully immersing himself, chances are you’ll catch him cooling his paws when he starts to get hot. If there aren’t any creeks or streams nearby, consider purchasing your pet a “kiddie” pool or install a pond. Cats, like dogs, are fascinated by flowing water and you may find all your four-legged friends lounging by their private oasis.
Bring them inside:
Our canine and feline friends thrive on interaction with their human guardians. Your pet should spend time indoors with you every day and night! During periods of extremely hot weather, you can ensure your pet’s safety by bringing him indoors with you. Most homes today are equipped with central air, air conditioners, or fans. All of these devices help keep humans cool and they’ll do the same for your pet. Even allowing your pet to spend time in a cool basement is better than keeping him outdoors when the temperature continues to rise.
Exercise in early morning or late evening:
Whether it’s play time or walk time, these fun times need to occur before the mercury starts to rise. Get up earlier to play or schedule your walks after the sun sets. If you walk your dogs on pavement, remember the asphalt can get very hot and does not cool down immediately. If your pet shows signs of discomfort, move onto the grass.
No trips in the car:
We humans have a tendency to underestimate how long it takes to “run into” the store to grab a few items. Your automobile, even with the windows open, can reach a temperature that is deadly to your dog in less than ten (10) minutes. Also, you may be tempted to leave the car running with the air condition on, but you never know when the engine may decide to stall. Don’t take chances – leave your pet home where he will be safe!
Our pets rely on us to provide them with quality health care, nutritious meals, and lots of love. With just a little extra thought and effort you can ensure your pets stay happy and healthy during warm weather.
The warm weather is upon us and with it comes the need for increased vigilance in the care of our pets. Our faithful friends have a much harder time cooling their bodies during times of high heat and humidity and are highly susceptible to heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal for pets just like humans; hence it is imperative that we provide the following to keep them safe and comfortable.
Fresh, clean, cool water:
A basic need at all times, water becomes even more important during hot weather. Offer your pet several watering stations so that water is always nearby. If you like “high tech” items, automatic watering systems that connect directly to a garden hose or stand-alone watering stations that circulate water through a filter are available from pet catalogs. For those of us who are more “old fashioned,” stainless steel buckets and bowls work just fine. Regardless of the method used, ensure that the system is clean and sanitary.
During times of extreme heat consider treating your friend by adding some ice cubes to his water. Made-for-pets popsicles and ice cream are also available if you enjoy “spoiling” your pals.
Ample shade and air flow:
A plastic or wood dog house sitting in the back yard with no natural shade is NOT adequate during hot weather. Such structures act more like an oven than a shelter. In order for your pet to stay cool he needs both shade and flowing air.
If your yard has no shade trees or high bushes, you must provide shade using tarps and/or canopies. Tarps are available at most hardware stores and outdoor pet beds with built-on canopies are available from most pet catalogs. If your pet spends long periods of time outdoors, ensure that shade is available at all times as the sun moves across the sky.
Trees or tall shrubs and bushes are excellent shade providers. Consider planting leafy varieties to increase the shade available for your pets; you’ll be helping the environment and your pets at the same time.
Give them a pool:
Most dogs enjoy streams and creeks. Even if your pup doesn’t like fully immersing himself, chances are you’ll catch him cooling his paws when he starts to get hot. If there aren’t any creeks or streams nearby, consider purchasing your pet a “kiddie” pool or install a pond. Cats, like dogs, are fascinated by flowing water and you may find all your four-legged friends lounging by their private oasis.
Bring them inside:
Our canine and feline friends thrive on interaction with their human guardians. Your pet should spend time indoors with you every day and night! During periods of extremely hot weather, you can ensure your pet’s safety by bringing him indoors with you. Most homes today are equipped with central air, air conditioners, or fans. All of these devices help keep humans cool and they’ll do the same for your pet. Even allowing your pet to spend time in a cool basement is better than keeping him outdoors when the temperature continues to rise.
Exercise in early morning or late evening:
Whether it’s play time or walk time, these fun times need to occur before the mercury starts to rise. Get up earlier to play or schedule your walks after the sun sets. If you walk your dogs on pavement, remember the asphalt can get very hot and does not cool down immediately. If your pet shows signs of discomfort, move onto the grass.
No trips in the car:
We humans have a tendency to underestimate how long it takes to “run into” the store to grab a few items. Your automobile, even with the windows open, can reach a temperature that is deadly to your dog in less than ten (10) minutes. Also, you may be tempted to leave the car running with the air condition on, but you never know when the engine may decide to stall. Don’t take chances – leave your pet home where he will be safe!
Our pets rely on us to provide them with quality health care, nutritious meals, and lots of love. With just a little extra thought and effort you can ensure your pets stay happy and healthy during warm weather.
Comments
Post a Comment