Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer

Summer brings fun outdoor activities for pets and their families. But hot weather and more time outside can create health risks for dogs and cats. Pet doctors want owners to know how to keep their animals safe during the warm months.

The first step is taking your pet to the vet for a checkup. This is extra important for older pets, overweight animals, or dogs with flat faces like bulldogs. These pets have a harder time staying cool in hot weather. A vet visit can find any health problems that might get worse in the heat.

Summer adventures can lead to lost pets. July 4th weekend is especially risky because fireworks scare many animals. About 30% more pets go missing during July 4th to 6th each year. Pet owners should check that their animal's microchip information is correct.

Warm weather brings more fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These bugs can make pets very sick by spreading diseases. Ticks and fleas can cause allergic reactions, hair loss, and skin problems. Pet owners should get flea, tick, and heartworm medicine from their vet before summer starts.

Hot days can be dangerous for pets, especially during heat waves. Pet owners should walk their dogs early in the morning or evening when it's cooler. Pets need fresh water and shade when they're outside. Never leave a pet alone in a car, even with windows open.