As the sun starts to shine brighter and the days grow longer, it's time to prepare ourselves and our beloved pets for the summer season. While we eagerly anticipate beach days and outdoor adventures, it's crucial to remember that our furry companions need special attention to stay safe and healthy under the summer sun. In this blog, we'll explore some essential tips for keeping your pets protected and comfortable during the warmer months.
Provide Ample Shade: Just like us, pets need a retreat from the sun's intense heat. Make sure your backyard or outdoor space has plenty of shaded areas where your pets can cool off. This could be under a tree, a canopy, or even a shaded patio. If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, consider investing in a pet-friendly sunshade or a doghouse with good ventilation.
Hydration is Key: Always have fresh, cool water available for your pets, especially when they're spending time outdoors. Dehydration can sneak up quickly, so be proactive in ensuring your furry friends stay hydrated. Consider carrying a portable water bowl and a bottle of water when you're out for walks or adventures.
Limit Outdoor Exercise During Peak Hours: The sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these hours, it's best to limit outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercise, with your pets. Opt for early morning or late evening walks when the temperatures are cooler and the pavement isn't too hot for their sensitive paw pads.
Pet-Safe Sunscreen: Sunscreen isn't just for humans—pets need protection from harmful UV rays too, especially those with short hair or light-colored fur. Apply sunscreen to areas with thin or exposed skin, such as the tips of ears, nose, belly, and any areas where fur is sparse. Remember to reapply as directed, especially after swimming or prolonged sun exposure.
Nextmune provides 2 sun protection solutions, SunnerSkin® and Dermoscent® Sunfree. Sunnerskin® is a high-SPF (50) sunscreen for dogs, cats and horses, with moisturising and water-repellent properties. Dermoscent® Sunfree is a high protection moisturising sun care (SPF 30+) made with 100% natural active ingredients. Both provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
Never Leave Pets in Parked Cars: This tip can't be emphasized enough. On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can skyrocket within minutes, even with the windows cracked open. Leaving pets unattended in a parked car can lead to heatstroke and even death. If you need to run errands, leave your pets at home where they'll be safe and comfortable.
Watch for Signs of Heatstroke: Heatstroke is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Watch out for signs such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cooler area, offer water to drink (not ice-cold), and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Check Your Pet's Feet: Hot pavement can burn your pet's paw pads, so always test the pavement temperature with your hand before going for a walk. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your pet's paws. Consider walking on grass or shaded paths instead. Protect their paws with paw wax or balms designed to provide a barrier against hot surfaces. After walks, inspect your pet's feet for any signs of damage or irritation.
Thanks to its organic-certified ingredients, Dermoscent® Bio Balm® nourishes, protects, helps repair, and soothe the skin of dogs. This water-resistant balm is ideal for dry or damaged paw pads, but also nose, non-infected calluses, or interdigital areas.
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it's essential to take precautions to keep our pets safe and comfortable. By providing shade, staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activities during peak hours, using protective gear, never leaving pets in parked cars, watching for signs of heatstroke, and checking their feet regularly, you can ensure that your pets have a happy and healthy summer season. Enjoy the sunshine together!