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How to Care for Pets in the Hot Weather

Member
By true2marie
User-Submitted Article
(3 Ratings)
Be sure to keep your pet hydrated with water in the heat.
Be sure to keep your pet hydrated with water in the heat.

Caring for pets properly in the hot weather is vital. It is when the temperatures rise that our beloved four legged friends fall prey to heat related illnesses. As a result, it's important to understand how to care for pets in the hot weather. Here's what to do.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Water
  • Brushes
  • Access to shade or AC
  • Access to a vet
  • Watchful eyes
  1. Step 1

    Give your pet a lot of water.

    Keeping your pet hydrated is very important when the weather gets hot. Be sure your pet has access to clean, cool water throughout the day. You can achieve this by refilling his water bowl a couple of times a day. Also, take cues from your pet that he is thirsty.

  2. Step 2

    Take your pet to the vet before the first day of summer.

    The hot weather along with your pet's body can provide an attractive home for parasites. So, before the heat hits your area, take your pet in to the vet. Make sure your pet is parasite free. It will make him less vulnerable to worms and other alien entities in the heat.

  3. Step 3

    Brush your pet's coat on a regular basis.

    If you own a cat or dog, brush their coat regularly as the temperatures rise. A well groomed coat helps reduce an animal's chances of contracting heat related skin conditions. Keep this in mind. Use it as an impudence to keep your pet well groomed in the summer.

  4. Step 4

    Provide adequate shelter for your pet during the heat.

    When the weather gets hot, make sure your pet has adequate shelter. Adequate shelter means a cool, shaded area to which he can retreat during the heat. If not, bring him inside with you until its safe to let them back outside.

  5. Step 5

    Watch for the signs that your pet is overheating.

    Excessive panting, lethargy and higher than normal body temperatures are signs that your pet is overheating and my be headed for heat stroke. So, it's important to keep a watchful eye open and act immediately if you see that your pet is in trouble. Take your pet to a cool area, hydrate him and call his vet if necessary.

Tips & Warnings
  • If it's too hot for you outside, it's probably too hot for your pet too. So bring him inside.
  • If you see that your pet is suddenly lethargic, it means he is probably overheating and it's time for you to act.
  • If you need shade and water to cool down, your pet probably needs these things too.
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