TurfMutt’s pet safety tips for hot summer days

A summer heatwave is hitting much of the United States. It’s not only uncomfortable; it can be dangerous for the family pet. Here are tips from the TurfMutt Foundation for keeping your pets safe this summer.

  • Stay indoors. Your pet is always safest and most comfortable inside with you. Limit outdoor time to brief “business” breaks.
  • Limit exercise. On hot days only exercise your pet early in the morning or later in the evening. Do a surface test by placing your hand on the sidewalk to make sure it’s not too hot for your pet’s sensitive paws. Carry water with you to keep your pet from dehydrating.
  • Never leave pets in a parked car. Temps inside vehicles can rise rapidly. Even with the air conditioner on and the car running, you shouldn’t leave your dog in the car alone.
  • Heed the humidity. Humidity can be as tough on your pet as soaring mercury is. High humidity impedes a dog’s ability to cool itself by panting.
  • Provide ample shade & water. Any time your pet has to be outside, make sure they have a place to get away from the sun and access to plenty of fresh, clean water.
  • Watch for heatstroke. The risk of heatstroke is higher for animals that are very young, very old or overweight. Signs to look for include excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting and excessive thirst. If your animal is experiencing any of these signs, get them to a veterinarian right away. You can cool them off enroute to the doctor’s office by placing ice packs and cold towels around their head, neck and chest.

Read TurfMutt’s tips for creating a pet paradise in your backyard (once the weather cools off a bit!). For more info on the benefits of backyarding for pets, people and the planet, visit TurfMutt.com.

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