It’s July, which means summer is in full swing and the weather is heating up! Colorado offers many ways for you and your pet to enjoy the sunny outdoors. We feel it important to remind you how to have safe fun this summer because animals experience the hot weather differently. In this blog, we’ll talk about a wide range of our summer safety tips, so buckle up to learn more about how to keep your pet happy and healthy this summer.
Our Top Independence Day Tips
With Fourth of July celebrations set to commence soon, hear our warning. Fireworks, really loud sounds and bright lights of any kind are very distressing to your pet. This holiday protect your pet’s mental health by offering them respite from the festivities in one of a few ways. First, consider a trip away from the bustling events of your city. Camping is a great escape from the craziness Independence Day brings. Can’t swing a trip this year? Consider sheltering your pet in a basement or soundproofed room. If you aren’t able to provide them with a low-volume alternative, consider anxiety remedies. This can include thundershirts, doggy earmuffs, and a warm embrace under a familiar blanket with their favorite person.
Hot Pavement, Hot Paws
When you get out of a pool to return to your tanning session, how frequently do you find yourself running on the blazing concrete while searing the bottoms of your feet? This is the reality for dogs too! Even with a temperature of only 77 degrees Fahrenheit, asphalt can heat up to more than 120 degrees! A good rule of thumb to protect your pup’s paws is to test the pathway you’re planning to take with your own hand or foot. If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for them! Conditions change quickly, consider purchasing your dog a set of shoes, or where possible avoiding concrete and asphalt all together. Check out 9News for the latest weather updates in Denver and surrounding areas.
Never Left in a Car, No Matter the Weather
That said, it is your obligation to never leave your pet unattended in a car, regardless of the weather. Especially during the summer, though, as your car is a giant box of metal, which acts as a microwave in the summer sun. Even a few minutes alone in a car can be drastically life threatening to your pet, never leave them unattended.
The Importance of Vaccinations
The outdoors are home to a variety of dangers like wild animals, bacteria, and uncharted territories. Vaccinating your pet is so important as a method of prevention from illness. Illnesses associated with diseases like Parvovirus, Cyanobacteria Toxicosis, insect-borne diseases, and more are possible if your pet isn’t properly vaccinated and can even be fatal. For information on vaccinations through MaxFund Veterinary Clinic, visit our Clinic page.
Do your Research to Prevent Pet Risks
On the same note as vaccinating your pet, it’s equally important to do your research on your summer vacation destination to ensure it to be pet friendly. While you may think your dispersed camping location will cater to your dog’s every whim, many sites across the Colorado wilderness are home to wild animals, and unsafe geographic features like cliffs and toxic plants. Double check before your trek!
Cats and the Outdoors: Caution is Vital
Sure, many cats live outdoors, but not your domesticated cutie. In fact, MaxFund is a leader in the initiative to reduce the number of cats in the wild due to how dangerous it is for cats to live outdoors. If you want your furry friend to have the chance for outdoor stimulation, consider providing them with a blended option like an enclosed patio safe from disease and external forces.
Holiday Fun for Everyone
We hope you’re able to take these tips and have an amazing summer, full of fun for the whole family. For more information on pet safety, vaccinations, and animal wellness, follow MaxFund Animal Adoption Center on our social media channels.