We are at the gates of summer and the high temperatures do not stop, so it is necessary to take extra precautions with our dogs and cats so that they do not suffer in this summer season.
With the arrival of summer, pets are the ones who suffer the most. In this context, there are several precautions that families should take into account. There is the issue of temperatures above 30 ºC, but also what to do if you travel with them on vacation, the need to keep them hydrated, or care when doing sports together.
1.- Heat and pets
During the summer period it is important to keep pets in places well protected from excessive heat, clean and fresh water must always be freely available to keep them well hydrated.
On the other hand, the haircut can be an option in some pets, but it must be taken into account that the fur of dogs and cats have layers that help them stay isolated from environments with extreme temperatures.
2.- The importance of water for pets
Using the pool or bathing in natural watercourses can be a good way to deal with high temperatures, but always when done under the supervision of an adult.
Otherwise, if there are no supervision conditions, it is not recommended to let them enter the water because there is a high possibility of triggering an accident.
Wilfredo Ibacache also warns that with high temperatures pets can suffer from dehydration, especially pediatric and geriatric patients, since in both the minimal variation in the hydration percentage is very sensitive.
3.- The schedule of the walks
The summer season is ideal to enjoy long walks with our dog, but we must take into account the times in which we are going out. High temperatures can play a trick on you, especially if you are dealing with old animals or puppies, which is why it is best to leave early in the morning or in the afternoon.
4.- The advantages of sunscreen
Like people, by exposing themselves directly to the sun for a long time, dogs and cats can suffer problems such as heat stroke and even generate lesions that can lead to skin cancer.
This problem becomes more sensitive when we talk about patients who have white skin. In this regard, there are some sunscreens specially designed for pets, they are complex to find in Chile, it is recommended to apply them in areas such as the ears, nose and near the eyes.
5.- Sport with pets
The pet should always be kept hydrated during the activity and ensuring that the physical activity that the dog undergoes is in accordance with its physical capabilities, otherwise it could suffer injuries or other problems associated with the overload of exercise.
6.- Traveling with your pet
If you decide to travel with your dog or cat, it is essential to consider the security measures that our pets need, since both must be transported with a seat belt or in a transport cage.
Also, remember to have fresh water for your pet, in order to hydrate it and never leave it locked in the car to avoid thermal shock.
If you travel to a new destination, the expert points out that the main thing is to explore the new space together with his master, always on his leash, never loose. It is important to bring your bed or toys so that the pet can identify odors that are their own.
And in case of going abroad, the most important thing is to be clear about the current regulations of the country of destination, since some have more sanitary requirements.
7.- Where to leave your pet during the holidays
If it is not possible to travel with your pet, the first recommendation is to leave it with people known to the animal and who are trustworthy, never with a minor.
Likewise, today there are specialized hotels that can be an excellent option. It is important to make sure that it is of good quality and that it meets the highest safety and care standards for your dog and/or cat.