Summer Pet Safety in Texas

Between water recreation, fireworks, parasites, and the heat (to name just a few), Texan pets have a lot working against their health and safety. As with most things, preventing problems related to the summer season is not only easier than treating issues, but also more affordable. Plus, when you add up all the ways that pets need to feel their very best, the simple, straightforward act of prioritizing summer pet safety in Texas makes all the difference. 

Keeping It Positive

Before we get into all the things you definitely should not do this summer, let’s list the many wonderful things you should do to optimize your pet’s health and happiness:

• Spend quality time together during the early morning and evening hours. When the sun is not at its peak, you and your pet can safely exercise outdoors and make some solid summer memories.
• Protect their paws when outdoors with booties or products like paw wax to keep their paws smooth and moist.
• Supervise your pet anytime they are on or near the water. Invest in a snug-fitting life jacket, and always check to make sure they know how to safely exit the water.
• Always keep fresh, cool water on hand and rotate clean bowls throughout the day.
• Encourage your pet to accompany you on outings but never force them to attend if they show signs or dress, fatigue, anxiety, or fear. Keep them at home where their safety is guaranteed.
• Stay at home with your pet if/when fireworks, crowds, or storms seem to unsettle them.
• Keep your pet’s microchip contact information up to date and replace old collar tags with ones that are easier to read.
• Update any necessary vaccinations and check on your pet’s parasite prevention medication schedule.
• Check window screens and door seals for any possible rips, tears, or breaks. Left alone, these items could result in an escape attempt or a lost/separated pet. 
• Be sure that yard and garden products are safely stored and that any toxic plants growing in the garden cannot be accessed by your pet. 

If it’s been a little while since your pet’s last wellness exam, summer can be the perfect time to get them up to speed. 

Threats to Summer Pet Safety

Possibly the biggest summertime no-no is leaving a pet in a parked car. Even if it’s for a short hop to a store, vehicle temperatures can skyrocket to triple digits before you know it. This is true on hot days, of course, but still applies to overcast or mild weather. 

Heat Stroke Risks

Above all, please pay close attention to a pet’s time outdoors this summer. Insist they take breaks in the shade, and do not allow them to overwork in the midday heat. 

The signs of heat stroke indicate a very real pet health crisis, and require immediate attention:

• Drooling
• Excessive panting
• Lethargy or mobility issues
• Loss of coordination
• Pacing
• Reddened gums
• Racing heart beat
• Vomiting or diarrhea

If you have questions about summer pet safety in Texas, or need help addressing your pet’s health or behavior, please give us a call at (817) 733-3011. The Vet Gal and Guys are always here to help.