Pawsitive Frontiers – Keeping Your Pets Safe
Keeping Your Pets Safe Year-Round By Cadet 1st Class Aurelie Doucet, SFPet Yeoman
Summer Care Tips
- Hydration and Shade During the hot summer months, it’s crucial to keep your pets hydrated. Always provide fresh, cool water and ensure they have access to shaded areas to avoid overheating.
- Avoiding Heat Stroke Never leave your pets in hot cars, conservatories, or outbuildings, as temperatures can rise rapidly and become fatal. Walk your dogs during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
- Sun Protection Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed skin areas, like the tips of their ears and nose, to prevent sunburn. This is especially important for pets with light-colored fur.
- Cool Treats and Comfort Offer your pets ice cubes in their water bowls or frozen treats to help them cool down. Providing damp towels for them to lie on or ice packs wrapped in towels can also offer relief from the heat.
Winter Care Tips
- Warm Shelter Ensure your pets have a warm, dry place to stay during the cold months. Outdoor pets should have insulated shelters to protect them from the elements.
- Paw Protection Cold weather can be harsh on your pet’s paws. Use pet-safe paw balms to prevent cracking and consider booties for dogs to protect their feet from ice and salt.
- Avoiding Hypothermia Limit your pet’s exposure to extreme cold. Shorten walks during very cold weather and dress your pets in warm clothing if necessary.
- Nutrition Adjustments Pets may require more calories in the winter to maintain their body heat. Please consult your vet to adjust their diet accordingly.
Spring and Fall Care Tips
- Allergy Management Spring and fall can bring about allergies in pets. Keep an eye out for symptoms like excessive scratching or sneezing and consult your vet for appropriate treatments.
- Flea and Tick Prevention These seasons are prime time for fleas and ticks. Regularly check your pets for these pests and use preventive treatments as recommended by your vet.
- Grooming Regular grooming helps manage shedding and keeps your pet’s coat healthy. Brush your pets frequently to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
By following these seasonal care tips, you can ensure your pets stay happy and healthy all year round. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Sources:
RSPCA
ThePetNest