4 Ways to Keep Pets Safe This Summer

If you haven’t been following the news lately, you may not be aware that the entire country is on track to have the hottest summer on record. While the majority of the country has air conditioning to keep us cool and comfortable, not everyone has that luxury. This is especially true for outdoor pets.

Every state is different when it comes to the laws set in place for outdoor pets. These laws can even vary on a county and city level. The first thing you should do is consult your local authorities’ websites to make sure you follow the laws set in place for your outdoor pets. If you aren’t sure even after reading up on the laws, reach out and ask someone who will know. Even if you feel you’re providing a safe haven for them, you don’t want to end up with a ticket or court summons because of an unknown law.

When it gets hot outside, we have to take extra precautions to ensure their safety and comfort as well as our own. We’ve put together a few ways to help you provide your outdoor animal family members with as much comfort as possible during the summer.

Provide Plenty of Shade

We as humans aren’t able to spend all day out in the sun without adverse effects so why would you expect that of your pet? If you’re unable to bring your pets inside for a break from the heat, make sure you keep them in an area where they’re able to get out of the sun whenever they want. If you’re not able to keep them under a shade tree, consider rigging up a tarp. Enclosed shelters are great in the winter, but in the summer they prevent good airflow and aren’t the best shade options for dogs, rabbits, or chickens. If you absolutely have to keep your chickens or rabbits in an enclosed shelter, include open windows with wiring to prevent them from getting out while still providing air flow.

Keep Water in Abundance

This should really be common sense, but some people aren’t aware that providing your outdoor pets with a constant supply of water is paramount to their health. Not only should you make sure they have plenty of water to drink, but you should also consider providing them with a pool of water to lie in during the hottest time of day. Throw a few ice cubes in when you can to keep it nice and cool.

Flea and Tick Prevention

Another unfortunate aspect of having outdoor pets in the summer is the increase in ticks and fleas. The warmer weather brings them out in droves, which in turn increase the chances of tapeworms and diseases that can affect your pets. Remember to treat barn cats as well, because their illnesses from parasites can lead to human illnesses like cat scratch disease and Lyme disease. There are several different options available for preventing fleas and ticks depending on the type of pet, your geographical location, and how comfortable you feel administering it yourself.

Know the Signs of Heatstroke

It’s good to know what to look for in the unfortunate event your pet does become overheated. Keep an eye out for heavy panting or difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness and lack of coordination, excessive salivation, and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms in your outdoor pet this summer, make every effort to move them into a shaded area or indoors with air-conditioning. Give them cool water to drink and pour some over their head and neck before taking them to their veterinarian.

You’re living the dream now on your new rural land. Make sure your pets have a dreamy life, too. Hopefully these tips will keep your outdoor pets happy and healthy this summer.