Top Pet Safety Tips For the Summer Months

Summer in the UK can bring some glorious warm weather, but it also presents challenges for keeping pets safe and comfortable. With temperatures rising in July and August, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect your beloved dog, cat, or other pets. This comprehensive guide shares expert tips on how to safeguard your pets during summer while promoting responsible ownership and ethical care.

1. Create a Safe Summer Environment

If you’re hosting a barbecue or garden party, ensure your pets are kept safe by establishing clear rules. Never allow pets to eat food directly from human plates, even tempting scraps or leftovers, as many common foods can be harmful or toxic to them.

Position small tables around for guests’ drinks to avoid spills on the floor which could be ingested by curious pets. Alcohol, in particular, is dangerous for dogs and cats. Better still, during social gatherings, consider keeping your pets indoors where it is cooler and safer.

2. Adjust Walking Schedules for Cooler Times

During hotter weather, change your pet’s walk times to avoid the heat of the day. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for longer walks, reducing the risk of overheating and protecting paws from hot pavements and surfaces.

3. Grooming and Coat Care for Comfort

For dogs with thick or heavy coats, a summer grooming session is highly recommended. Depending on the breed, clipping or stripping the coat helps release trapped heat and improve air circulation to keep your dog cooler. Regular brushing also removes dead hair and can prevent skin issues linked to heat stress.

4. Protect Pets from Sunburn

Did you know dogs and cats can get sunburnt? Light-skinned, pale, or thin-coated pets are particularly at risk. Focus on protecting their noses, ears, and other exposed skin. Apply pet-specific sunblock well before outdoor exposure, avoiding products containing zinc oxide or salicylates which are toxic if licked or ingested.

Whenever possible, provide shade or limit time in direct sun to keep pets comfortable and safe.

5. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke and Overheating

Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapse may indicate heatstroke, a serious emergency. Ensure fresh water is always available and bring pets into cool environments promptly if signs of distress appear. Prompt veterinary treatment can be lifesaving.

6. Protect Against Biting Insects and Parasites

Summer months bring an increase in insects such as fleas, ticks, and biting bugs. These parasites cause discomfort and can transmit diseases. Keep your pet’s flea and tick treatments up to date and check their skin regularly. Avoid letting dogs chase stinging insects, and watch closely for swelling or difficulty breathing after any stings.

7. Hot Pavement and Surface Safety

Hot road surfaces and pavements can burn pet paws. Test surfaces with your hand before walking, and consider lightweight protective booties for longer outings if needed. Choose grassy or shaded paths to reduce risk.

8. Responsible Pet Ownership and Ethical Care

Summer safety is part of responsible pet ownership. Always ensure your pet is microchipped and has a secure collar with an ID tag. Buy pets only from reputable breeders who prioritise health and welfare.

Providing a safe, cool, and loving environment during summer months ensures your pet enjoys warm weather happily and healthily.

Conclusion

Keeping pets safe in the summer requires careful planning and attention to detail. Adjust your pet’s routine to cooler walk times, protect them from sunburn and heatstroke, and avoid feeding dangerous foods at social events. Keeping flea and tick protection current adds another layer of care. With these expert tips, your pet will enjoy a safer, more comfortable summer in the UK.