Summer brings seasonal risks for pets:
As temperatures rise and families spend more time outdoors, there are more opportunities for pets to have fun, but that can also introduce additional risks. From extreme heat and increased tick activity to unexpected wildlife encounters and hurricane preparedness, pet owners need to take extra precautions to ensure their pets’ safety.
One of the most immediate concerns during the summer months is heat exposure, especially for dogs. Unlike people, dogs have limited ways to cool themselves and can become overheated quickly.
To keep your pet cool and comfortable during walks, try to stick to morning and evening outings. Temperatures are cooler, the sun is less intense, and the ground is less hot. It is also a good idea to check pavement temperatures before walks, as hot surfaces can burn paw pads. Fresh water, access to shade and frequent breaks are essential during outdoor activities in the summer months.
As the weather warms, ticks also become more active and are something pet owners should be aware of. Year-round medical preventives are your pet’s first line of defense against ticks. Check your pets for ticks after walks, hikes and outdoor playtime, especially near tall grass and brush. Keep grass and brush trimmed around your home. If your pet is not on preventive medication, talk to your veterinarian about year-round flea and tick prevention. Even with precautions in place, animals can still get the occasional tick. If this happens, remove any ticks you find with tweezers.
For cats, be on the lookout for skinks. These small lizards are commonly seen in our area, and many cats like to hunt them once spotted. While skinks themselves are not considered highly toxic, cats that catch or eat them can develop an upset stomach or could contract parasites from the skink.
In addition to heat and seasonal wildlife concerns, summer also brings hurricane season, making emergency planning an important part of responsible pet ownership.
Emergency kits should include several days’ worth of food and water, medications, medical records, carriers and leashes. Ensure your pet’s microchip information and tags are up to date. We often do not have much warning when hurricanes are coming, so it is a good idea to have a plan in place for where you and your pets will go.
Summer is often filled with vacations, backyard play and outdoor adventures. Taking preventive measures can help ensure your pets stay safe and healthy during all of those activities.
Katie Licata is the Director of Marketing at Palmetto Animal League palmettoanimalleague.org
