- Always ensure pets have access to water.
- Keep pets away from fertilizers, insecticides, and even some brands of mulch, as they can be toxic.
- Ensure pets have plenty of shade. And watch the weather. If a heat advisory is announced, it’s best to keep pets indoors until temperatures cool off.
- Watch for warning signs of heatstroke: excessive panting and drooling, bright red gums, balance problems, lethargy, and labored breathing. If a pet is struggling or obviously is suffering from heatstroke, cool it by placing cool wet towels on the pet’s body and call the veterinarian immediately.
- Never, ever leave pets in an enclosed vehicle, because cars can heat up to over 100 degrees in mere minutes.
- Be sure pets are wearing updated identification tags or a microchip should they get loose.
- Schedule outside activities in the mornings and evenings when it’s still cool, and watch out for hot pavement, which can burn pets’ paws.
- Keep an eye on pets while swimming-not all dogs are good swimmers.
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