by Lindsay Horvath

Created on: July 15, 2009

Like most people, pets tend to love the summer months. Longer days and kids home from school often equals more playtime for dogs. Cats enjoy sitting next to open windows, or even braving the backyard for some birdwatching and chipmunk stalking. Game such as Frisbee and fetch are much more plentiful, and walks may be longer and more leisurely when frigid temperatures and snow are a mere memory.

But like people, pets also experience some of the downfalls of summer, most notably hot, sticky, uncomfortable temperatures. It's important to remember our furry creatures during the summer months, and recognize that the soaring mercury can pose some threats (such as dehydration and heatstroke) along with just the plain old sensation of being uncomfortable! The following is a list of ways to ensure that your pet stays cool and comfy during the dog days of summer.

The Summer Wardrobe. For some pets, a long or particularly thick coat can pose a problem in the summer. In the same way that we humans would not wear a down jacket and wool pants in July, keep in mind that a dog or cat with a heavy coat may be more comfortable with a new look. Many dogs are short-haired to begin with, and most domestic cats are as well. These pets generally need no altering to their natural fur. For long-haired cats, sometimes a trip to the groomer to be shaved down can allow for some cool freedom in the summer months. Dogs with long hair can benefit from a clip as well, in particular dogs with heavy, thick coats, such as Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, or Chow Chows. If there is no reason other than a cosmetic one for your pet to sport the long-haired look, do him a favor and get him groomed with an appropriate summer do.

Keep Them Hydrated. Just like people, pets can become dehydrated when their bodies overheat. Its important to offer fresh, cool water to your pets at all times. Take care to make sure your pet is drinking periodically throughout the day, as opposed to letting him drink large amounts quickly. When walking or hiking with a dog, be sure to bring along a travel bowl and water bottle, or stop at a stream for a sip. A properly hydrated body has an easier time keeping coolin both humans and pets!

Avoid Over-Exercising. Even a well-trained athlete would not go outside at the hottest part of the day and run three miles. As humans, we understand the risks and consequences of over-exerting ourselves in extreme heat. Animals, however, lack the ability to understand such logic as anyone

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>