Summer is in full swing, and it’s a great time for enjoying all of your favorite warm-weather activities. Sadly, sun-drenched summer days and pets do not always mix. As the temperature climbs higher and higher this summer, it is essential to understand how to keep your furry family member safe from harm. Here at VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, we are here to help. Read on to uncover some helpful advice from a veterinarian near Lawrence.

Leave Pets at Home

Your pet may love going for rides with you, but home is the safest place for them on hot days. Within 30 minutes, the interior of your car can reach a sweltering 120° on an 85° day. And unfortunately, parking in the shade and cracking the windows doesn’t help as much as most people believe. Leaving the car running with the air conditioner turned on isn't really a good idea, either. Your four-legged best friend could bump the controls, or your vehicle could shut down. No matter how much your pet likes going with you, you should never leave them in your vehicle unsupervised during the summer. It takes mere seconds for disaster strike, so it’s just not worth the risk - no matter how much your pet begs! 

Provide Plenty of Water

Your beloved pet should always have unrestricted access to water. This is especially important during hot weather due to the increased risk of dehydration. Like people, pets need more water in the summer than during cooler times of the year. Ensure that your dog or cat’s water bowl is always filled with clean, cool water. Bring water with you when walking your dog, too, even if you’re just taking a short trip around the block. 

Stay Off Hot Pavement

Paved surfaces get extremely hot during the summer and can burn your pet's paws. Black asphalt is especially dangerous because it absorbs the sun’s heat and could be an astonishing 60° hotter than the current air temperature. Serious burns can occur within one minute of contact with extremely hot pavement.

When possible, it is best to avoid walking your dog on paved surfaces during hot, sunny weather. When you have to walk on pavement, check the temperature with your hand before letting your pet walk on it. If it is too warm to keep your hand on it for a minimum of ten seconds, your pet can't walk on it without risking serious injuries to their paw pads. 

Schedule an appointment with a Veterinarian near Lawrence

Does your pet need a veterinarian near Lawrence, Indiana? If so, our team would be delighted to help.  Reach out to us today to schedule your pet's first appointment at VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center.