Summer is a time for outdoor enjoyment and fun, but the season can hold potential dangers for your pets.  In The Valley of the Sun, the dangers of high temperatures should not be underestimated.  By following a few basic tips you can maintain good health and safety for your pets.

While at home, ensure that your dog has adequate shade, ventilation and fresh cool water available when outside.

For larger dog breeds, a well-cleaned five-gallon paint bucket filled with cool water will prevent the dog from tipping over the water.

Protect Pets from Pools

Pets and pools can be dangerous.

Prevent free pool access and supervise your pets and kids in a pool at all times.

Protect Your Pet’s Paws

Remember if the asphalt is too hot for you to walk on without shoes, then it is too hot for your pets to walk on without shoes!  Dog booties are a necessity to protect your dog’s feet and are sold most anywhere.

Keep pet exercise limited to the cooler early morning hours.

Take extra precaution when it is hot with older dogs, short-nosed dogs and those with thick coats, as they are more susceptible to heat-related issues.

Leave Pets at Home

Resist the temptation to take your pet with you in the car while you do errands or shop, as this can mean real trouble for pets.

The inside of a car can reach 150 degrees within minutes. Leaving your helpless pets, or children, inside a hot car is a death sentence.

Pets left in cars, while the owner runs into a store for “just a minute” can end up suffering from heat exhaustion, heat stroke or even death within minutes.

Leave your pets at home where they can be safe and cool.