By Michelle Bogan

For many Californians, the arrival of summer means more time spent outdoors. For pet owners, it may also mean including your furry companions in your sun-soaked adventures. However, with longer sun exposure and higher temperatures, your pet is at a greater risk for skin and ear infections, pests, injuries, and heat stroke.

Here are a few tips to keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy all summer long.

1. Supply Plenty of Water and Shade

While humans sweat to regulate their body temperature, pets do not. In fact, dogs can only sweat from areas not covered in fur, such as the pads of their feet. Instead, dogs rely on panting to regulate their body temperature. The AKC says: “When dogs pant, they evaporate moisture from their tongues, nasal passages, and the lining of their lungs, cooling themselves as air passes over the moist tissue.” Because of this, dogs are at greater risk for overheating and heat stroke when left in direct sunlight for long periods of time.

Ultimately, veterinarians recommend keeping your pets indoors during the summer. However, if you and your pet are unable to ignore the call of adventure, be sure to supply plenty of fresh, clean water and breaks in the shade.

2. Never Leave Your Pet in the Car

While some pets love riding in the car, it is illegal in the state of California to leave your pet locked inside; and with good reason! Did you know, if it’s 90 degrees outside, it can reach upwards of 124 degrees inside your car in just 30 minutes? Such high temperatures can quickly lead to heat stroke and even death.

California’s “Hot Car” law states: It is illegal to “leave or confine an animal in any unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the health or well-being of an animal due to heat, cold, lack of adequate ventilation, or lack of food or water, or other circumstances that could reasonably be expected to cause suffering, disability, or death to the animal.”

A simple rule of thumb is: if you can’t take your pet with you, leave them at home.

3. Apply Sunscreen

Just like people, pets can get sunburned. Also, like humans, these burns can also be painful and lead to skin cancer. Pets with short or light-colored coats are particularly susceptible. A good way to prevent this is to apply sunscreen specifically designed for pets to vulnerable areas such as: ears, nose, belly, and any place where skin is exposed. Most sunscreens require reapplication every 3-4 hours. Please consult your vet for recommendations and instructions.

4. Don’t Shave Your Pet

Shaving your pet may seem like the logical thing to do to prevent overheating, but their fur serves an important function. Not only does it protect them against the sun’s rays, but it also keeps them cooler in the summer, and warmer in the winter. It’s okay to trim their fur; just be sure to leave at least 1-inch in length.

Keeping your dog on an exercise regimen is important for their overall health and well being. However, during the summer you may need to modify your walking schedule. To keep your pet from overheating, only go for walks in the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler. If this is unavoidable, shorter walks are recommended to decrease heat and sun exposure. Be sure to bring bottled water and a small bowl with you to keep your dog hydrated along your exercise route.

6. Protect the Paws!

When taking your dog for a walk in the summer, some owners may not think about the hot concrete underfoot. In fact, pavement can cause burns on a dog’s pads. To prevent this, experts recommend walking during cooler times of the day. If this is unavoidable, stick to grassy areas or use dog shoes or socks. Also, consider moisturizing your dog’s feet daily. This can help prevent cuts, cracking, and peeling which makes your dog more prone to burns. Please see your veterinarian for recommendations.

7. Watch Out for Wildlife

You and your pet aren’t the only ones who enjoy being outdoors in the summer months. For California wildlife, the warmer weather means they are more active, increasing the chance of interactions with humans. Did you know that most rattlesnake bites occur during the months of April to October?

When adventuring with your pet, always be aware of your surroundings. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife also recommend keeping your dog leashed when hiking. They also state: “Dogs are at increased risk of being bitten due to holding their nose to the ground while investigating the outdoors. Speak to your veterinarian about canine rattlesnake vaccines and what to do if your pet is bitten.”

8. Watch Your Dog Near Water

Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, many dogs enjoy cooling off in water. However, not every dog is a strong swimmer and unfortunately, accidents happen. If you plan to take your dog swimming or sailing, it’s a good idea to invest in a brightly colored life vest. This will keep your dog afloat while remaining visible. Even with the life vest, you should always keep an eye on your dog near water.

9. Protect Your Pets from Pests

In summer, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other parasites are everywhere. These bugs may carry tapeworms, heartworms, and diseases such as Lyme or Bartonella that can put your pet at risk. If not treated, they can multiply in great numbers and spread to your home. Ask your vet for the appropriate medical prescriptions to keep your pet, and home, pest-free this summer.

10. Know the Signs

A dog’s normal temperature is between 100° and 103°F, while a normal temperature in cats ranges from 100.4º to 102.5ºF. Anything higher than that means your pet is in danger. Watch for these symptoms of overheating:

• Heavy panting
• Dry or bright red gums
• Thick drool
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Wobbly legs

If your pet shows signs of heat exhaustion, move them to a cool place, give them a drink of water, put a damp towel over their body, and get them to the vet asap. Don’t place your pet in cold water as it can send them into shock.