8 Ways to Prepare Your Pet for Summer
With the dog (or cat!) days of summer fast approaching, it’s time to make plans for summertime activities with your pet. But before hitting the beach or the hiking trail, check out these tips from our experts for ways to beat the heat and keep your pet safe this summer.
- Know Your Pet’s Vaccination Status
When was your pet’s last wellness visit? If it’s been awhile, give us a call! You want your pet protected from communicable diseases, which means he needs to be current on necessary vaccines, especially if you’re traveling with your pet or boarding your pet.
- Prevent Parasites From Bugging Your Pet
You don’t want your picnic plans upended by parasites, so make sure your pet is up-to-date on heartworm and flea and tick prevention. Even though these pests present a problem year-round in Texas, they tend to hit their stride in the summer heat.
- Snuff Out Allergies
Get your pet’s allergies under control now so he can thoroughly enjoy the great outdoors this summer. Symptoms of allergies include excessive scratching or biting at the skin, sneezing, and visible skin problems such as bumps or oozing.
- Give Your Pet a Cool Coif
Keep your pet’s fur well-groomed with regular bathing, brushing, and trimming (if necessary). It will help keep him cooler and more comfortable in the summer months.
- Get Your Pet Microchipped
If you haven’t already, get your pet microchipped, especially if your summer itinerary includes traveling with your pet.
- Curtail Toxic Table Scraps
Who doesn’t love a summer barbecue? Chances are, the food will smell awfully tempting to your pet as well, so plan menus with minimal food ingredients that are toxic to pets, and be prepared to remind guests not to slip table scraps to your fur baby–no matter how much he begs!
- Gear Up for Sunny Days
Lay in the supplies you’ll need for summer fun with your pet! A few things to consider: canine-specific sunscreen, a portable pet tent for shade and protection, and a travel bowl for water.
- “Bone Up” on Summer Pet Safety
Summer pet safety is critical when the mercury rises. Some quick reminders: protect your pet’s paws from hot surfaces, walk your pet early in the morning, and know when it’s time to seek relief in the shade.
Now Have Fun!
Whether you opt for indoor activities to avoid the heat with your pet or venture out into the sun, the important thing is to keep your pet safe and enjoy your time with your pet. At Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you prepare your pet for a summer filled with fun. Please contact us to schedule a wellness visit or if you would like more tips about summer pet safety.