Summer is almost here, and it’s a wonderful time to get out and enjoy time with loved ones — including the furry ones. Unfortunately, those hot summer days you love can be dangerous for animals. As the temperature rises this summer, you will need to understand how to safeguard your pet. Here at VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, our team never wants to see any area animals experiencing heat-related illness or injuries this summer. Keep reading to uncover some useful summertime safety tips from a vet in Carmel!

Avoid Hot Pavement

The air temperature isn't the only thing you need to worry about during the summer. Paved surfaces get really hot, too, and can burn your pet's paws. Black asphalt can be up to 60° hotter than the temperature of the air and cause severe burns within one minute of contact. We recommend avoiding pavement of all types as much as possible during the summer. If walking on pavement is your only option, check the temperature with your hand. If you cannot comfortably keep your hand on it for ten seconds, your fur baby can't safely walk on it. Purchasing a pair of booties is a great way to protect your pet's paws on hot pavement.

Don't Take Your Pet With You

Your four-legged co-pilot does not want to sit in a hot vehicle while you shop. Home is the safest place for them. It only takes half an hour for the inside of a car or truck to climb to 120° when the outside temperature is 85°. Despite common myths, cracking the windows doesn't provide any real benefit, nor does parking in a shady spot. Leaving the vehicle running with the air conditioner on high is not a safe idea, either. Even new cars can have mechanical problems, and pets left alone in vehicles could accidentally switch off the air conditioner or bump the car into gear. Leaving a pet alone in a car is extremely risky and can turn deadly in an instant. No matter how much your pet likes going with you, it just isn’t worth the risk.

Keep Them Fully Hydrated

Pets should always have unrestricted access to fresh, clean water. This is especially important during hot weather, though, because of the increased risk of dehydration. Like people, animals need to increase their water intake during hot weather. Keep their water dish at home full of cool (not ice cold) water at all times, and be sure to pack some water when taking your dog for a walk.

Visit a Vet in Carmel for Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

People are not the only ones who enjoy the summer season. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes (which carry the heartworm parasite) do, too. Remember to schedule an appointment with a vet in Carmel to keep them up to date on flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives.

If your furry friend needs a vet in Carmel or the surrounding areas, we'd be honored to lend a hand. Contact VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center today to make an appointment, or bring them in for urgent care.