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Community Corner

How to Keep Your Pets Cool in the Summer

Patch's a list of ways locals can make sure your pets don't overheat in the dog days of summer.

With the thermostat regularly topping 90 degrees these days, you likely feel hot, sweaty and gross. Now think about how your pet is feeling.

Sure, their fur keeps them comfortable in the winter, but in the summer they’re walking around with a coat they can’t escape from. Cats and dogs pant to keep themselves cool, which increases their risk of heat stroke. To avoid this risk and others, such as heat exhaustion, here are a few things you can do as a pet owner.

Earlier:

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Pay Attention to Symptoms

The heat can cause changes in your pet’s body and a few things to look for include:

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  • Your usually perky pet is unresponsive
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Whitening or paling of gums
  • Thickened saliva
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Disoriented behavior

If you notice any of these signs, your pet may need immediate veterinarian care. The and both offer vet services, whether you would like to bring your pet in or need some advice over the phone.

Water, Water, Water

You already know how important water is to your overall health and the same applies to your pets, especially during the summer months. Whether your pet spends its time indoors or out, it should always have access to a full water bowl. You may toss in a few ice cubes to make sure it stays cool. Your dog may enjoy a kiddie pool for fun and cooling down when they’re outside. and are great places to pick up cute water bowls, water toys or even adjustable watering stations for your pet.

Summer Styling

Although it might sound like a good idea to shave off your pet’s coat during the summer months, most professional groomers and veterinarians advise against this. You can keep your pet's coif intact and keep him or her cool at the same time by treating them to a day at the groomers. Antoines Grooming and Paws Pet Place offer grooming services perfect for clipping your pet’s ‘do into a functional style while the temperatures are high.

Change Up Your Daily Walks

Instead of taking your dog out in the middle of the day, consider the early morning or late evening hours. Avoiding asphalt or other hot surfaces in favor of shaded and grassy areas is a good rule of thumb to avoid overheating.

Keep Pets Away From Hot Vehicles

If you’re hot running errands and your pet is along for the ride, it can be tempting to leave your pet for a second while running in and out of the stores. Pets should never be left alone, even if the windows are down. On hot days, cars can become mini-ovens. If bringing your pet with you can’t be avoided, leave someone in the car with the animal, along with air and lots of water. If you see an animal that may be in danger, call the ’s animal control or the police.

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