by Sarah Michelson

Created on: May 12, 2009   Last Updated: May 20, 2009

Summertime. Goodbye to the harsh winds of winter and the rainy days of spring. With the longer days and the warmer weather, the great outdoors is calling, and its invited your furry friends. Summer is a great time for pets- you can spend time outside with your cats, enjoying the sun, take your dog on walks in the evenings or to the beach, and even your fish can enjoy the increase in sunlight. However, summer can become a dangerous time for pets.

In most parts of the world, it gets warm in the summer. San Francisco is a notable exception. However much you enjoy the warmth, certain precautions need to be taken to keep it from affecting your pets.

First and foremost, give your companions lots of water. If you're out of the house all day, make sure that they have access to a bowl of water, and don't hesitate to set out two if you by your return home the bowl is empty. Hydration is key to all animals. If you take your dog (or cat, iguana, or Guinea pig) out on a walk, make sure that you stop to give him water, and that he has access to water when he or she gets home.

If your house is not air conditioned, and your pets remain inside for most of the day, try to help them stay cool. If you can, run a fan, or, at the least, open a window. If your pets stay outside, make sure they have access to shade. Try not to leave your pets in the car, and if you must, open the windows and don't be gone for more than thirty minutes. Additionally, pets with pink noses or without fur can get sunburned just like humans, so put a dab of sunscreen on Fido before taking him outside. Skin cancer is not fun.

Follow basic precautions as well when enjoying the summer with your pets. Keep your dog on a leash when out and about, and make sure that your fence is in good repair. Neighbors don't take too kindly to furry visitors. Check to make sure that your pets have current vaccinations, and be wary of ticks, fleas, and worms.

If you're taking your pets camping or on hikes, be sure to check for plants that can get caught in paws, and can cause infections and pain if not removed. Generally dogs cannot get Poison Ivy or Oak, however, they can spread it to humans, so if you think your pet has been in it, carefully wash them. As the oils will likely cause a rash if your or your dog's skin comes into contact with it, you should wear gloves when bathing your dog if you suspect he has it.

Summertime, though hazardous, is one of the best times of the year for pet owners. Take your dog to the beach, spend an afternoon in the sun with your cat, or let your goldfish enjoy the sunshine. If you make adequate efforts to keep your pets safe, summer with them can be a blast.

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