How to Prepare Your Pet for a Safe and Happy Summer
Summer is in full swing, and California’s fun-filled outdoor adventures await! There’s so much to see and do, and if you’re planning to make summer memories with your pet, it’s important to take a few extra precautions to protect your pet from the heat and other risk factors. We want your pet to fully enjoy the dog (or cat!) days of summer, so read on for pet summer wellness tips from our team at The Whole Pet Vet Hospital & Wellness Center.
Schedule a Pet Summer Wellness Visit
Summer travels and new adventures will expose your pet to new environments—and possibly other animals—which could make him vulnerable to communicable diseases. Schedule a pet summer wellness visit, and we’ll make sure he’s healthy and has the vaccines he needs for optimal protection.
Send Those Parasites Packing
Don’t let fleas, ticks, and mosquitos bug your pet during summer activities. Make sure your cat or dog is current on heartworm and parasite preventives.
Trim—Don’t Shave—Your Pet
It may sound counterintuitive, but your pet’s fur coat is designed by nature to help keep him cool in the summer. Remove extra fluff with regular bathing and brushing, and visit a professional groomer for a cool summer coif. Dogs should have at least an inch of fur to protect their delicate skin from the sun. Which brings us to our next tip:
Pets Need Sunscreen, Too!
If you’re planning a sun-filled summer outing with your pet, apply sunscreen made specifically for pets to the ears, belly, and nose. And just like with people, reapply every few hours and after swimming.
Get Your Pet Microchipped
Sadly, summer is the season when more pets go missing, so now is the time to have your pet microchipped. It’s a simple procedure (basically like getting a vaccine), and it will greatly increase your chances of being reunited with your pet.
Protect Your Pet’s Paws
Paw protection needs to be part of any pet summer wellness plan. Pet booties can protect those precious paws when hot surfaces like asphalt, cement, or sand can’t be avoided.
Delete Dangerous Foods From Summer Menus
Keep backyard barbecues pet-safe by putting a limit on ingredients that are dangerous for pets, promptly clearing away leftovers, and reminding guests that sharing table scraps with your pet is a no-no—no matter how much they beg!
Respect the Heat
Excessively hot days call for extra precautions. Limit your pet’s time outdoors; take your dog for walks early in the morning or later in the evening; and make sure your pet stays sufficiently hydrated. If an outdoor activity can’t be avoided, keep your pet in the shade as much as possible, and watch for signs of dehydration, which include excessive panting and wobbly legs.
Enjoy the Summer with Your Pet!
We want you to have a safe, fun-filled summer with your pet. Please contact us if you would like more tips about pet summer wellness.