According to the calendar it’s not quite summer yet, but here in Denver we have already had temperatures in the mid 90’s which means it’s a long hot season ahead. As unpleasant as it can be for us to endure the heat, imagine how our four-legged friends with their built in fur coats feel!?  Pets can suffer from the same heat-related problems as people and they can happen even faster, so here are some tips to help you help your pet avoid such problems as overheating, dehydration, and even sunburn.
1. Visit your vet at the beginning of the season, have a heartworm test and stock up on your preventative medication as well as the flea & tick control program your vet thinks is best for your pet.
2. Do not leave your pet alone in a vehicle because hyperthermia can be fatal. Even with the windows down your car can become unbelievably hot in a very short time.
3. Always carry a gallon of fresh, cool water when traveling with your pet.
4. The right time for playtime is morning or evening when it’s cooler, but never after a meal and never when it’s extremely humid.
5. Use street smarts - Do not let your dog or cat stand on hot asphalt! Sensitive paw pads can burn.
6. A day at the beach is no day at the beach for your dog unless you can guarantee a shady spot and provide plenty of fresh water. And after a dip in the ocean immediately rinse off your salty dog!
7. Do not leave your pets outside during mid-day heat, even if they have shade and shelter. Find a place inside where they can rest and be cool.
8. Be especially considerate to older and overweight animals, as well as those with heart or lung conditions, and even dogs with snub noses like Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih tzus, etc; they are all more susceptible to heat-related problems.
9. Avoid areas outdoors that may have been sprayed with insecticides or chemical fertilizers.
10. A sassy summer hairdo can help dogs with long hair beat the heat – but don’t shave it shorter than one inch to maintain protection from sunburn. Good grooming, keeps cats cool too; brush them often to help them keep that coat to a minimum.
Hope this helps you and your pets Be Cooool!
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