Summer is almost here, and there's no better time for hanging out with friends and loved ones. Sadly, hot weather and pets aren’t always a good combination. As the temperature continues to climb, it's crucial to understand how to keep your feline friend or canine companion safe from harm. At PetNest Animal Hospital, our team never wants to witness any local pets experiencing heat-related illnesses during the summer. In this blog post, a vet in Frisco discusses a few crucial pet summer safety tips. Let's go!

Leave Pets at Home

Your dog or cat doesn’t want to wait in a sweltering vehicle while you shop. They would be a lot more comfortable - and safer - spending the day at home. It only takes a half hour for the inside of a car or truck to climb to 120° on an 85° day. Leaving a window slightly open or leaving your car in a shady location won't keep a car or truck significantly cooler. And leaving the car running with the air conditioner on is not a solution, either. Even new vehicles can break down, and it's possible for unattended pets to accidentally switch off the air conditioner or even bump the vehicle out of park. Leaving a pet alone in a vehicle is extremely risky and can turn deadly in an instant. It just is not worth the risk.

Ensure They Are Drinking Lots of Water

Animals need to have fresh water available to them all the time. It’s even more important in the summer, though. Like people, animals need to increase their water intake during hot weather. Ensure that their water dish at home is always full of clean water. Bring along a bottle of water and a collapsible bowl when going for a walk with your pet, too.

Don't Walk on Hot Pavement

The air temperature isn't the only thing you need to be concerned about during the summer. Paved surfaces get really hot, too, and can cause serious burns. Black asphalt is the worst offender and can be up to 60° hotter than the air temperature. In these situations, serious burns can occur within just a minute. When possible, it is safest to walk your dog on the grass during hot weather. When you must walk on a paved surface, use your hand to see how hot it is. If you can't comfortably keep your hand on it for a minimum of ten seconds, it is too hot for your pet to walk on. Consider buying a pair of booties to protect your pup’s delicate paws when they have to walk on hot pavement.

Keep Your Pet Up-to-Date on Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Preventatives from a Vet in Frisco

We aren't the only ones who enjoy the summer season. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes (which carry heartworm) do, too. Schedule an appointment with your pet’s vet in Frisco to keep them up to date on the safest and most effective flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives.

Does your dog or cat need a highly qualified in Frisco? If so, we'd be honored to be entrusted with their care. Reach out to PetNest Animal Hospital now to book your cat or dog's appointment.