The warmer weather is upon us and that means you’ll probably be going outside with your furry friends more often. It comes as no surprise that June and July are some of the hottest months of the year. When it comes to you and your pet, be sure to always have water with you when outside for any extended period of time. The temperatures are rising with new record highs year after year, meaning we should all be drinking more water. Let’s be sure to help our pet’s do the same this summer.
Here are four tips from your friends and family at Brook Farm Veterinary Center to keep your pet hydrated this summer season.
1. Conserve energy
Be considerate to your pets when choosing to partake in high-energy outdoor activities and aim to do them once the hottest part of the day has passed. Early morning or around sunset tends to be when the temperatures have decreased.
We recommend conserving your pets energy by spending the hottest parts of your days indoors relaxing with your furry friend. When you’re planning outdoor adventures be sure to take into consideration your pet’s age, health, and a regular exercise regime so you don’t overdo it.
2. Provide resources.
When spending time outdoors it’s always a good idea to bring your dog a comfortable surface such as their bed, a cooling mat, or a towel so they have something to lay on when they want to take a break. Cooling vests and fans are another great way to help provide comfort from the heat. If possible, search for an area that has some shade or the use of a covered patio or umbrella where you and your pet can escape direct sunlight from time to time helping avoid dehydration.
3. Go for a swim
If possible, cool off by going for a swim. Going swimming with your pet is a really great way to cool off your body temperature and can be a fun bonding activity with your pet too. Don’t have access to a pool, don’t worry, a small plastic kid’s pool is a great way for your pets to cool off while hanging outside with the family. Set it up in your backyard and your dog will be able to cool down when they need to. If you're going for a swim in a creek, lake or ocean, be sure to get your pet their own lifejacket to be sure they remain safe while cooling off from the summer heat:
4. Keep the water bowl full
Keep in mind your pet will drink more the hotter it gets outside, and it may seem like something that’s simple to remember but think about how often we as humans forget to drink water in the summer heat. Try your best to be conscious that you and your pet are staying hydrated. To do so, be sure to constantly check their water bowl to ensure it’s full, clean and fresh. The use of a collapsible bowl, filtered water bottle, and a misting portable fan are other ways you can keep your pet cool on the go.
Be sure to keep your pet hydrated to avoid risk of heat stroke. Test your summer heat knowledge with a little game of Trivial Pursuit Summer Heat Edition:
If you have any questions about how to keep your pet properly hydrated throughout the hottest summer months, give us a call! At Brook Farm Veterinary Center we’re a family, and we’re always happy to help!
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