June Pet Safety Tips from West Metro Pet Care

As summer arrives in Minnesota, it's crucial to ensure our pets stay safe and comfortable. With temperatures soaring into the high 80s and 90s°F this June, and hazy skies due to wildfire smoke, proactive pet care is essential.(ASPCA)

☀️ Beat the Heat: Protecting Pets from Overheating

Pets are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, especially during extreme temperatures. A tragic incident in Houston highlighted the dangers when a dog succumbed to heat distress after being left without water or shade in over 100°F heat. (Houston Chronicle)

Tips to keep your pet cool:

• Provide constant access to fresh water and shade. Ensure your pet has unlimited access to fresh water and a shady spot when outdoors. (AVMA)

• Avoid peak heat hours. Limit outdoor activities to early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. (American Red Cross)

• Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Even with windows cracked, car interiors can quickly reach dangerous temperatures. (Animal Rescue League of Iowa)

• Watch for signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse. If you observe these, move your pet to a cool area and contact a veterinarian immediately. (The Irish Sun)

🐾 Protect Those Paws

Hot pavement can burn your pet's paw pads. Use the "seven-second test": place the back of your hand on the pavement; if it's too hot to hold for seven seconds, it's too hot for your pet's paws. (Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies, The Sun)

Recommendations:

• Walk on grass or shaded paths.

• Schedule walks during cooler parts of the day.

• Consider protective booties for your pet.

🦟 Guard Against Summer Pests

Summer brings an increase in pests like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and heartworm. (Ontario SPCA and Humane Society)

Preventative measures:

• Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives.

• Administer heartworm prevention medications.

• Regularly check your pet for ticks, especially after outdoor activities.

🧳 Safe Summer Travels with Pets

If you're planning trips with your pet:(Ontario SPCA and Humane Society)

• Ensure your pet is microchipped and wears an ID tag.

• Pack essentials: water, food, medications, and a first-aid kit.

• Never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.

• Provide a comfortable and secure space for your pet during travel.

🎆 Prepare for Fireworks and Loud Noises

Fireworks and thunderstorms can be distressing for pets.

To ease their anxiety:

• Create a safe, quiet space indoors.

• Use calming aids or consult your veterinarian for anxiety solutions.

• Keep windows and curtains closed to muffle sounds.

🐾 We're Here for You

At West Metro Pet Care, your pet's well-being is our priority. Schedule a summer wellness check-up to ensure your pet is ready for the season.

Stay safe and enjoy the summer with your furry friends!