Summer Safety Tips for Pet Owners and Stray Helpers

Summer is all about sunny days, warm breezes, and outdoor fun. However, it also poses unique challenges for our furry friends, particularly for pets and stray animals. Whether you’re a devoted pet parent or a compassionate stray helper, these summer safety tips will help ensure that animals remain safe, comfortable, and happy all season long.

1. Hydration is Key!

Just like us, dogs and cats require plenty of water, particularly during hot weather. Ensure your pets always have access to fresh, clean water, and bring extra along if you go for a walk or a day trip. If you’re caring for strays, consider placing water bowls in shaded spots around your neighbourhood. Monitor their water levels and refill as necessary, especially during peak heat.

Pro tip: Adding ice cubes to the water bowls can help keep the water cooler for longer. Many pets find playing with the ice to be a delightful treat!

2. Find the Shade

When you’re enjoying time outdoors with your furry friend, it’s so important to provide them with a nice shaded area to escape the heat. The direct sunlight can quickly cause overheating, which can be really dangerous for our animal companions. At home, you can create some cosy, shaded spots by using umbrellas, tents, or even a fun blanket canopy in your garden!

For our furry friends living on the streets, you can lend a helping hand by setting up temporary shaded spots with a cardboard box or an old sheet stretched between posts. This little gesture gives them a cool and comfy place to rest away from the sun.

3. Be Mindful of Hot Pavement

The ground warms up rapidly under the summer sun, causing sidewalks and pavement to become extremely hot for sensitive paws. Before you take your pet for a walk, conduct the “pavement test” by pressing the back of your hand against the surface for a few seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws!

Pro tip: Early mornings and late evenings are the ideal times for walks since temperatures are generally cooler. Also, remember that grass or dirt paths are gentler on paws compared to concrete!

4. Never Leave Pets in the Car

Even on mild days, cars can heat up quickly, almost like ovens! The temperatures inside a parked car can rise alarmingly, putting our furry friends at serious risk of heatstroke. If you have errands to run, it’s best to leave your pet cosy and safe at home, or consider bringing along a friend who can keep them company while you’re away.

For stray animals, if you happen to see one that has wandered into a parked car looking for a bit of shade, it’s kind to alert the owner or gently encourage the animal to come out if it’s safe to do so.

5. Protect Against Pesky Pests

Summer brings along troublesome parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. These pests pose a risk of spreading diseases that can affect both pets and strays. Ensure your pets are current on flea and tick prevention and inspect them after outdoor activities. If you’re assisting strays, look for nearby programs that provide treatments to protect strays from parasites.

Pro tip: Consider planting pest-repellent plants like lavender and mint around your home to naturally fend off mosquitoes.

6. Cool Treats for Hot Days

Who doesn’t love a refreshingly cold treat on a sunny day? Pets adore them, too! You can whip up frozen treats, like peanut butter (without xylitol), in ice cube trays or create delightful “pupsicles” by freezing broth along with small treats. Many cats also appreciate a chilly treat of frozen tuna juice (water-packed, not oil), making for a tasty and refreshing snack.

For our stray animal friends, consider making frozen water bowls. Just drop in small bites of food to offer hydration and a little nutrition, all in one!

7. Keep an Eye Out for Heatstroke Symptoms

Heatstroke can develop rapidly, making it crucial to recognise the warning signs. Symptoms to watch for include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, a racing heartbeat, vomiting, and trouble breathing. If you observe any of these symptoms in your pet, relocate them to a cooler area, provide water, and reach out to a veterinarian right away.

For stray animals, if you notice one displaying symptoms of heatstroke, attempt to move it to a shaded area and give it water. If possible, contact a nearby animal rescue for additional assistance.

8. Be Fireworks-Aware

Summer often brings fireworks, which can be distressing for animals with sensitive hearing. When fireworks are scheduled, keep your pets indoors and set up a tranquil, secure space where they can feel safe.

If you’re caring for strays, consider making calm areas for them in your yard or community, such as cardboard boxes or shelters, where they can seek refuge from the noise.

9. Look Out for Local Summer Dangers

Different areas present unique summer hazards, so familiarise yourself with the specific risks in your region. In some locations, summer might bring snakes or stinging insects. In other regions, certain types of plants or algae can pose dangers to animals. Research what to be aware of, and if you’re near a water source, avoid allowing pets to drink from standing water, as it may harbour harmful bacteria or algae.

10. Spread the Word About Stray Safety

Summer can be especially challenging for strays, so if you’re eager to help, consider sharing these tips with friends and neighbours. Small actions, such as providing water bowls or contacting a rescue if an animal is in trouble, can have a significant impact. You might even host a “Stray Safety Day” in your community to raise awareness and motivate others to get involved.

Wrapping Up

Summer should be an enjoyable and relaxing time for everyone, pets included. With some preparation and care, we can keep both pets and strays safe, cool, and happy throughout the summer. Keep in mind that every small act of kindness contributes to a safer summer for the animals in your life and those that roam our neighbourhoods.

Let’s work together to ensure this summer is filled with fun and safety for all animals.