Summertime is here, and people will be spending more time with their pets in the scorching sun. Humans will probably think of sunscreens and be very careful about the heat and keeping up with the traffic and the increasing number of crimes during this time. However, very few people will think of dangers that come with the summer to their pets.

The weekends in July are full of pool parties, fireworks, patriotism, and barbecues as humans enjoy their summer holidays in their backyard or in the clubs and restaurants. Although the weekends in June and July are jam-packed with parties and entertainment, they are the riskiest for your pets.

Statistics from The American Humane Association shows that one out of 3 pets is lost at some point in their life. The same statistics show that about 10 Million pets, both dogs and cats, are stolen or lost in the US every year. Additional information from Coalition for Reuniting Pets and Families shows that less than 25% of these pets are reunited with their families.

Cases of death are also on the rise during the summer. These cases are caused by the increasing number of crimes towards animals and the unconducive temperatures and weather conditions. The summer increases cases of heat stress-related injuries and possible deaths for both cats and dogs.

With that said, the summer provides a perfect chance to be smart and creative with the ways you protect your best friend and the way you keep these cuties comfortable. Here’s a list of some summer dangers for pets and smart tips to avoid them.

Dehydration and Heatstroke

This is the first and the most overlooked pet danger that is very common during the summer. Dogs can become dangerously overheated, becoming sluggish, tired, and restless. They may also start to vomit and diarrhea or excessively salivate.

During your summer outings with your best friend, always check for dehydration. You can do this by pinching her skin to check whether it’s elastic. It’s also important to keep active communication with a freeonline vet for upcoming questions and advice.

BBQ dangers

There are obvious risks of burning and some grave risks, such as overeating. This shows that you should be very careful with your children and pets in case of outdoor cookouts. The dog can be invited to overeat or among other dangers. The trash should be covered, and children strictly advised not to overfeed the dogs and cats.

Pet drowning in swimming pools

As you enjoy your time in an outdoor swimming pool, be aware that it can only take a few seconds for a dog or a cat to drown. There are some breeds of cats and dogs that are at the greatest danger. This is an underestimated summer danger because most people assume their dogs and cats are excellent swimmers. The fact remains that even excellent swimmers may fail to get out of the swimming pool safely. Puppies and Kittens are at the greatest danger of drowning even when watching them.

Spiders and snakes

This is another pervasive danger that comes with summer. Although the risks of the snake and spider bites are not common in all areas, some report more severe cases. This means that you should protect your pet from venomous animals such as rattlesnakes and black widow spiders.

How serious a snake or spider bite is depends on several factors. Some common factors are the pet's age, size, weight, and breed. It’s now essential to be on the lookout when walking your dog in rural areas.

Solar Dermatitis

Solar dermatitis is a common condition caused by prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. This condition is prevalent in cats and dogs that have pale and white patches of skin. The condition usually affects the non-pigmented areas such as the ears, nose, and eyelids.

We all know that the harmful rays of the sun can cause skin damage to humans. The same is true for cats and dogs. Remember, humans can wear sunscreen, unlike pets. So, always provide enough shade for your pets during those long summer outings.

Pool poison

You will probably be spending a lot of your time in the swimming pool with your dog. Although experts never disclose this, the ingestion of chlorine and other pool chemicals can cause more problems in pets than in humans. Dogs, for example, may experience stomach distress and kidney problems. Ingesting, some of these chemicals can be hazardous for some pets and can cause serious heart diseases and kidney failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my dog safe in the summer heat?

The dog, just like humans, should be given enough water. It’s also essential to avoid hot sidewalks, avoid leaving the dog alone inside the car, and also protect the dog from direct sun exposure. Additionally, brush your dog regularly and offer your best friend several ways to cool.

Is hot weather bad for Pets?

Remember that if the temperature outside is too hot or cold for humans to be comfortable, it’s severe to your friends. The hot temperatures during the summer can cause heatstroke and dehydration.

To help people and their pets stay safe during the warm months, police always encourage personal responsibility. If you know you won’t have enough shade, it’s still important to leave your pets at home. Carefully observe your pets for any signs of distress and discomfort and act accordingly.