Summertime Tips to Keep Your Pet Cool

Our staff at Trinity Pet Hospital in Laguna Hills often hears some specific questions from pet owners at this time of year, so we decided to devote today's blog to answering the most-asked question of all: How to keep your pets cool during the summer months. The following tips will help you to make sure that your pet is comfortable and safe even when the weather outside is steamy and humid.

Stay Cool, Tips From Trinity Pet Hospital

During these especially hot months, Trinity Pet Hospital and other laguna pet hospitals tend to see an uptick in the number of serious heat related illnesses in pets. Here in Laguna Hills, the weather can certainly be very hot and difficult to deal with during summer months, however you can almost always avoid heat related illnesses in pets with some simple attention and planning ahead.

Providing a fresh bowl of cool water is especially essential during the summer months. When the temperatures outside are in the 80s, 90s, and even beyond, it takes just minutes for a cool bowl of water to turn uncomfortably warm. This is especially true in the case of metal bowls that are left outdoors. Consider leaving a mix of ice cubes and water in your pet's bowl so it can melt slowly as it provides fresh cool water.

Make sure your pets have a sheltered cool area to rest, away from the sun. Even if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, you can make sure to have an area with an overhang that provides shade, for example. Make sure that water bowl is placed in this shady area, too.

Be aware of signs of heatstroke and watch your pets closely whenever they are outdoors for long periods. Heatstroke signs may include excessive panting, vomiting, problems walking/stumbling, fast heartbeat, confusion, pacing, or unusually dark gums. Heatstroke is very serious and potentially deadly. If you see these signs, please get medical help for your pet right away!

What are your favorite ways to stay cool during this hot summer weather?