HELP YOUR PETS BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER
The National Weather Service has named May 22, 2015 National Heat Awareness Day, and with the summer fast approaching, we wanted to give you some reminders for taking care of your furry friend in the warmer weather.
- Protect his or her paws! Whether you have a dog or a cat (or both!), we strongly recommend a paw protector for that sensitive skin. For mildly hot days, try Musher’s Secret or Muttluks Pawstik. Remember if you can’t comfortably place the back of your hand on the ground, it’s too hot for your pet’s sensitive paws!
- Try to avoid over-heating your dog with exercise. Imagine what it’s like to run in a fur coat. That’s what your pup feels like. One vet recommends high-energy exercise only to the point that the heat + humidity is less than 150. So if it’s 75 degrees but has 80% humidity, that is 150. And that may be the cutoff point. Try the Canine Equipment Ultimate Cooling Coat to help keep them a little cooler while you enjoy the outdoors.
- Monitor for signs of heatstroke whether exercising or not. Excessive panting, vomiting, a racing heart or even intense lethargy and sluggishness can all be signs. Your best bet is to provide a cool, dry place for your pet to relax. And make sure he or she is getting enough moisture. Most dogs need between ½ to a full ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. If your pet isn’t drinking that much, make sure you’re providing moisture in the food, either mixing water into the dry or using a canned or raw food instead. And cats rarely drink water, getting most of their water requirement – about 80% of it – from their food, so make sure to keep that nice and moist in the hot summer months.
- Finally, and this should go without saying, don’t leave your pet in the car unattended. On an 85 degree day, a car, even one with the windows open slightly, can see temperatures well over 100 within 10 minutes. That sun just bakes down on the car, turning it into a little sauna…fast. So please be smart. Don’t leave your pet in the car unattended, ever.
For paw protection, more tips on summer care, and great travel bowls and treats for your summery pup, stop by your local Kriser’s store.