Whether Fluffy likes to frolic in the sun, or Rex prefers to relax in the shade, summertime brings countless ways to enjoy the warm weather for you and your furry companions. And while you’re tempted to let them tag along on your afternoon run or hop in the car with you to run a few errands, keep in mind that as the temps rise, so do risks to their good health.
You see, cats and dogs don’t respond to heat the way we do. Since they don’t sweat through their entire bodies to keep cool, they are at increased risk for heat stroke and dehydration, especially older or overweight animals.
So, what can you do to ensure your pet stays safe this summer? Following these helpful tips is a great place to start:
1. Early summer is an ideal time to have your pet checked by a veterinarian while ensuring their vaccinations are up to date. With increased time outdoors comes increased chances for bug bites, heartworm and rabies.
2. Even pets can get sunburn, especially short-haired pets and those with light colored noses. Apply pet-approved sunscreen to their ears and noses to help prevent skin problems.
3. A well-groomed pet is a happy pet, especially in the summer. Cutting your heavy-coated dog’s hair down to an inch from his skin helps keep him cool, while frequent brushing does the same for your feline friends.
4. Provide your pet with easy access to fresh, cool water, especially if you’ll be gone for an extended period. A few ice cubes in their bowl will help keep that water from getting warm too quickly.
5. For outdoor pets, consider putting a small kiddie pool in a shaded spot for them. But since standing water attracts bugs, especially during warm weather, clean it often.
6. If it’s extra hot and humid outdoors, the best place for your pet (and you) is indoors.
To make it easier to keep your pets well-watered and clean, maybe it’s time to install an extra outdoor faucet. Think of the added convenience that can provide in addition to simplifying your pet care. Installing an outdoor faucet near your driveway, for example, would make it much easier to wash your own car and save money by lessening your dependence on commercial car washes. Out back, if there’s not a faucet already, you can finally plant that garden or flower bed that you’ve been hoping to for ages. For more information and a free quote – or, to schedule installation – contact Connor Plumbing today. We’re you’re all-purpose Beaumont area plumber.
