Keep your pet cool when they’re home alone
Summer heat is here, and you can bet our pets are feeling it more than we are. Not only are they covered in fur, but they can sweat only through the pads of their paws.
When we are home, we keep ourselves and our furry companions as comfortable as possible with air conditioning and fans, but what happens when we leave?
Although we set the thermostat, unexpected issues may take our pet’s comfort out of our control. A power failure can stop the air conditioning, or a problem with the dog door could trap your dog outside in the heat.
The following simple precautions will ensure that your pet always keeps their cool when home alone:
- Hydration is key! Give your pet plenty of fresh water before you leave the house. If your pet has access to the outdoors, water should be available outside as well.
- Buffer your home from heat. Keep your pet comfortable and your energy bill down by closing blinds and curtains during the day.
- Avoid stuffy spaces. Wherever your pet spends the most time in the house should be well ventilated. A floor or ceiling fan can also improve air flow.
- Provide shade. Your pet should always have a way to escape the summer sun when outdoors. Trees, canopies or table umbrellas can all do the trick. A dog house, however, isn’t a good option, since they tend to trap heat. Remember that shade travels through the day, so be sure to plan accordingly.
- Protect paws. Manmade materials like asphalt, wood and even artificial turf can all get extremely hot. Your dog should have a soft and cool substance, such as soil or natural grass, to lie on outside.
- Never tie up your dog in the yard! Leashes and rope can get tangled, preventing your dog from reaching water and shade.
- Groom for summer. Help your pet shed extra hair with a summer grooming routine.
These simple steps will let you rest easy that your best buddy is comfortable and safe in your home, no matter what happens.
Don’t forget that heatstroke can occur if you leave your pet unattended in your car. Never leave your pet in a car since the interior temperature rises very quickly, even on mild days.
Be cool and take our heatstroke prevention pledge and share a picture @vca #vcapets !
Take the Cool Pledge >>
