Summer Hazards in Pets: Protecting Your Furry Friends from Seasonal Dangers

It’s time for summer, with its fun-filled days in the sun. But while you’re enjoying the warm weather and long, relaxing days, it’s important to be mindful of your furry friends. Our team at McKinney Emergency Veterinary Clinic has put together some tips to help cats and dogs stay safe and healthy during the summer months. We’re here for you and your beloved pet every step of the way.

Summer Hazards That Can Put Your Pet at Risk

Here is a look at the most common summer hazards that can leave your furry companion at risk: 

• Heatstroke: Excessive heat and humidity can lead to heatstroke, which can develop quickly and become life-threatening if not addressed immediately. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, mouth breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, unsteadiness, and collapse. 
• Dehydration: Pets can become dehydrated quickly when outdoors in hot weather if they don’t have access to fresh, cool water. Signs of dehydration may include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and collapse. 
• Blue-Green Algae: During the summer, lakes and ponds can become breeding grounds for blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria. If ingested, even in tiny amounts, this toxic algae can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, difficulty breathing, disorientation, and even death within hours. 
• Hot Pavement: The summer sun can heat pavement and asphalt to dangerous temperatures that can burn your furry friend’s paws after just a few seconds of contact. Remember, if it’s too hot for your hands, it’s too hot for their paws. 
• Parasites: Summer is the peak season for parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can transmit various illnesses. These include heartworm, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. Even indoor pets can be at risk without year-round protection.
• Sunburn: Pets with light-colored or thin coats are vulnerable to sunburn, especially on their ears, noses, and bellies. Overexposure to the sun can lead to pain and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Tips to Keep Your Pet Cool and Safe This Summer

The following are tips to keep your furry companion safe and healthy this summer: 

• Provide Plenty of Water: Always ensure your pet has access to fresh, cool water when spending time outdoors. Consider adding ice cubes to keep your furry friend cool.
• Provide a Shady Retreat: When spending time outside, provide your pet with access to shade. Hanging a sheet or blanket can create a cool outdoor refuge for your furry friend. 
• Avoid the Midday Sun: Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower and the surfaces are cooler. Close any blinds or curtains to keep your home cooler. 
• Groom Your Furry Friend: Regular grooming can help remove excess fur, which is helpful for long-haired pet breeds. Tangles and mats can trap heat, making it harder for your furry friend to stay cool. 
• Remember Parasite Prevention: Keep your pet on year-round flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives as recommended by your vet. This is especially important in summer when these pesky pests are most active.
• Keep Pets Out of Unknown Water Sources: Avoid letting your pet swim in or drink from stagnant ponds, lakes, or rivers where harmful algae may be present. If not sure, keep your pet on a leash and offer clean water from home. 
• Never Leave Pets in a Car: Never leave your pet unattended in a parked car, even with a window cracked. On a warm day, the temperature inside can rise to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes, leading to heatstroke, brain damage, or even death. 
• Update ID Information: With kids at home and more summer activities, it’s easy for doors to be left open or for pets to slip out. That’s why it’s important to update your contact information on collar tags and microchips to ensure a happy reunion should your furry companion ever wander off.

Emergency Veterinary Care Near Me in McKinney, TX

If your pet shows any signs of heatstroke, poisoning, sunburn, or injury from hot surfaces, don’t wait. Contact McKinney Emergency Veterinary Clinic for immediate care. Summer hazards can escalate quickly and become life-threatening. Our experienced emergency team is available to provide prompt and compassionate care to ensure the best possible outcomes for your furry companion.

If your pet experiences an emergency, please contact us at 469-820-0233. We are dedicated to providing the best possible care to household pets in McKinney, TX, and the surrounding communities.