The summer heat is hard on our four-legged friends. I look at Gunner and Ike and think to myself, not only are they wearing fur coats 24-hours-a-day, but they also only have sweat glands in their paws. That's right; they can't even cool down with a good, full-body sweat. The most relief they can find from the heat is through panting, and during these days of soaring temps that's just not enough to keep them cool and healthy.
In the past, Michael and I have found it fun to be inventive; doggy wading pools, ice-cube treats and even sprinkler games have made for entertaining K-9 cool-down techniques. There are many fun ways to stay cool on hot summer day, and keeping your pets safe in the heat is pretty simple if you follow the basics of summer pet safety:
· Never leave your pet alone in a standing or parked car. Temperatures can rise quickly leading to sickness, stroke and even death from over-heating.
· Keep plenty of fresh water readily available for your pet.
· During outdoor play or exercise, be on the lookout for heat stroke. Signs include, heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
· Pets can be sun-burned, just like humans. Sunscreen and shade are necessary to protect their skin.
Follow these tips, and you'll see that the heat doesn't have to impact your summer-time play, especially when you spend your time finding fun ways to keep cool.
How do your pets chill out in the summer sun? Share your heat-busting tips below.
