Protect your pet from the heat!
Step 1: Never leave your pet in a parked car. Even cracked windows won't protect your pet from suffering from heat stroke during hot summer days.
Step 2: Walk your dog in the early morning or evening hours, instead of during the middle of the day when it's hottest.
Step 3: If your dog or cat is out during the day, remember that asphalt and concrete can get very hot and burn the pads of their feet. Your pet must always have shelter available to protect it from extreme temperatures and inclement weather. Be aware that older and overweight pets are more likely to overheat in hot weather. The best alternative is to keep pets indoors with air conditioning.
Step 4: Keep your pet away from unfamiliar yards and grassy areas as many people treat their lawns with pesticides and fertilizers, which can cause severe intestinal upset in dogs and cats when ingested. Some types of mulch can also be hazardous.
Step 5: Provide your pet with fresh, cool water every day in a tip-proof bowl.
Step 6: Keep your pet well groomed, but don’t shave off all of his hair in an effort to keep him cool. Your pet's coat will protect him from getting sunburned. A matted coat traps in the heat, attracts parasites and can cause skin sores.
Step 7: Keep your pet away from puddles of auto coolant in the garage, driveways or parking lots. The sweet taste of this poisonous liquid is tempting to animals, but can be fatal. You might consider using a more pet-friendly variety of coolant that is less toxic.
