Summer is calling, and there's nothing better than answering it with your furry best friend by your side. Sunny walks, trips to the dog park, and lazy afternoons in the backyard are what the season is all about. But while we're soaking up the sun, it's easy to forget that summer brings its own set of dangers for our companions. From scorching pavement to seasonal plants, the risks are real. Learning how to keep pets safe during these warmer months is crucial. Let's make sure every adventure is a happy and healthy one.
Today, My Hooves and Paws will share six handy tips for you to consider to keep your pets safe, healthy, and happy all summer long. Let’s take a look!
Keeping Your Pet Safe at Home
While the great outdoors presents its own set of challenges, our homes can also hide potential dangers for curious pets. Creating a safe indoor environment is just as important as being cautious on a walk or at the park. A little bit of awareness and preparation can go a long way in preventing accidents and keeping your four-legged family member out of harm's way. By taking a closer look at your living space and daily routines, you can ensure your home is a true sanctuary for your pet.
Pet-Proofing Your Living Space
The first step to a safer home is to see it from your pet’s perspective—low to the ground and full of interesting things to chew or explore. Start by securing potential hazards. Use childproof locks on low cabinets where you store cleaning supplies or chemicals, and make sure all trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Curious noses and paws can easily get into trouble. Cover or tuck away electrical cords to prevent chewing, and always keep toilet lids down to stop pets from drinking water that may contain harmful cleaning residues. This proactive approach helps minimize the everyday risks that are often overlooked.
Inspecting Pet Toys for Wear and Tear
Your pet’s favorite toys provide essential enrichment, but they can become dangerous over time. Make it a habit to regularly inspect their toys for any signs of damage, like cracks, splinters, or pieces that are breaking off. A damaged toy can quickly become a choking hazard or cause internal injuries if swallowed. If you find a toy that’s past its prime, it’s best to discard it and replace it with something new and durable. Investing in high-quality, well-made cat toys and dog toys ensures playtime stays fun and safe.
Identifying Common Household Toxins
Many items that are perfectly safe for us can be toxic to our pets. It's crucial to know what these are and keep them well out of reach. This includes common human foods, popular houseplants, and even leftovers from your dinner plate. A curious pet won't know the difference between a safe treat and a dangerous substance, so it's up to us to be their first line of defense. By familiarizing yourself with these potential poisons, you can prevent a serious emergency before it ever happens.
Dangerous Human Foods for Pets
Sharing snacks with your furry friend can be tempting, but many human foods are toxic to animals. Items like chocolate, coffee, grapes, raisins, and onions can cause severe health problems for dogs and cats. Even sweets containing the artificial sweetener xylitol are extremely dangerous. Always store these foods in secure containers and in places your pet absolutely cannot access. If you want to treat your pet, stick to snacks and treats specifically formulated for them to ensure they're getting something both delicious and safe.
Poisonous House and Garden Plants
That beautiful bouquet on your counter or the leafy plant in your living room could pose a threat to your pet. Many common house and garden plants are poisonous if ingested by cats or dogs. Lilies, for example, are extremely toxic to cats, while poinsettias and mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset. Before bringing a new plant into your home, it’s a good idea to check a reliable resource, like the ASPCA’s toxic plant list, to confirm it’s pet-safe. When in doubt, place plants in areas your pet can't reach.
The Dangers of Cooked Bones
Giving a dog a bone might seem like a classic treat, but cooked bones are a serious hazard. The cooking process makes them brittle, causing them to splinter easily when chewed. These sharp fragments can lead to choking, mouth injuries, or severe internal damage if swallowed. Instead of sharing leftovers from your meal, opt for safer chew alternatives designed for dogs. These provide the same satisfaction of chewing without the associated risks, keeping your pet happy and healthy.
Proactive Steps for Pet Safety
Beyond pet-proofing your home, taking proactive steps can make a huge difference in your pet's overall safety. This involves establishing good habits, preparing for the unexpected, and staying on top of their health and training. These measures are about creating a safety net that protects your pet both inside and outside the home. By thinking ahead, you can handle various situations with confidence and ensure your companion has the protection they need throughout their life. It’s an investment in peace of mind for both of you.
The Importance of Identification
No matter how careful you are, there's always a chance your pet could get lost. Proper identification is their best ticket back home. A sturdy, well-fitted collar with up-to-date ID tags is the fastest way for someone to contact you if they find your pet. A microchip provides a permanent, reliable form of identification that can't fall off. Just remember to register the chip and keep your contact information current in the database if you move or change your phone number.
Keeping ID Tags and Microchips Up-to-Date
An ID tag or microchip is only as good as the information it contains. Double-check your pet's tags to ensure the phone number is legible and correct. We have a great selection of durable dog collars that can comfortably hold your pet's essential information. For microchips, contact the registry annually to confirm your details are current. Taking a few minutes to verify this information can be the crucial step that reunites you with your lost pet.
Training and Socialization
A well-trained and socialized pet is often a safer pet. Training isn't just about cute tricks; it's about communication and control, which are essential for preventing accidents. Similarly, proper socialization helps your pet feel comfortable and act predictably in new situations, reducing the risk of fear-based or aggressive reactions. These foundational skills build confidence in your pet and strengthen the bond you share, making every interaction safer and more enjoyable.
Using Basic Commands to Prevent Accidents
Solid obedience training is a powerful safety tool. Commands like "come," "stay," and especially "leave it" can stop your pet from running into a dangerous street, eating something harmful off the ground, or approaching an unfriendly animal. Consistent practice in various environments helps ensure your pet will listen even when distracted. Think of these commands as your direct line of communication in a critical moment—the more reliable it is, the safer your pet will be.
The Role of Early Socialization
Exposing your pet to a variety of sights, sounds, people, and other animals from a young age is key to raising a well-adjusted companion. Proper socialization helps prevent fear and anxiety, which can lead to unpredictable behavior. A pet that is comfortable in different settings is less likely to bolt in a panic or react aggressively toward a stranger or another animal. This early exposure builds a foundation of confidence that will help keep them safe throughout their life.
Emergency Preparedness and Vet Care
Just like you would for any other family member, having a plan for emergencies is a vital part of responsible pet ownership. This includes everything from routine health maintenance to knowing exactly what to do in a crisis. Regular veterinary care helps you stay ahead of potential health issues, while being prepared for an accident can save precious time when it matters most. A little foresight ensures you can act quickly and effectively in any situation.
The Importance of Regular Vet Checkups
Preventative care is the cornerstone of your pet's long-term health and safety. Annual or semi-annual checkups allow your veterinarian to catch potential health problems early, often before they become serious. These visits are also the perfect time to ensure your pet is up-to-date on crucial vaccinations that protect them from contagious diseases. A strong relationship with your vet is one of the best resources you have for keeping your pet healthy for years to come.
Keeping Emergency Numbers Accessible
When an emergency strikes, you don't want to waste time searching for a phone number. Keep the contact information for your regular veterinarian, a nearby 24-hour emergency animal hospital, and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) in an easily accessible place, like on your refrigerator or saved in your phone. Having this information at your fingertips allows you to act immediately, which can make all the difference in the outcome of an emergency.
6 Ways to Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer
General Outdoor and Travel Safety
Ensuring Your Yard is Securely Fenced
A secure yard is your pet’s first line of defense against outdoor dangers. Before letting your dog or cat roam freely, take a walk around your property's perimeter. Check your fence for any potential escape routes, like gaps under the gate, loose boards, or holes that a curious pet might wiggle through. Summer can bring unexpected loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, which can spook even the calmest animal and trigger their instinct to run. A well-maintained fence provides peace of mind, ensuring their outdoor playtime stays safely within your backyard. Making this simple check a regular habit helps keep them contained and protected from neighborhood hazards.
Always Use a Leash in Unfenced Areas
Even if your dog has perfect recall at the park, it’s essential to keep them on a leash in any unfenced area. You never know when a squirrel will dart across the path or another dog will appear unexpectedly, and a leash prevents your companion from bolting into a dangerous situation, like traffic. Think of it as a lifeline that keeps them safe from countless unknowns. It also shows respect for other people and pets who may be nervous around off-leash animals. Make sure you have a sturdy, reliable leash and a properly fitted collar or harness before you head out for your next walk, hike, or trip to a new place.
Using a Carrier or Restraint for Car Travel
When you’re hitting the road with your pet, their safety inside the car is just as important as yours. An unrestrained animal can become a dangerous distraction for the driver or suffer serious injury during a sudden stop. For smaller pets, a well-ventilated carrier is a great option, while larger dogs can be secured with a travel harness that buckles into the seatbelt. According to pet safety experts at SafeWise, this simple step is crucial for safe travel. Securing your pet not only protects them but also ensures you can focus on the road. Don't forget to pack their essentials, like water and a bowl, to keep them comfortable on the journey.
The Dangers of Leaving Pets in Parked Cars
Never, ever leave your pet alone in a parked car, not even for a minute. On a warm day, the temperature inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels incredibly quickly, even if you park in the shade or crack the windows. A car can essentially become an oven, leading to heatstroke and potentially fatal consequences in a matter of minutes. Your pet can’t tell you when they’re getting too hot, so it’s up to you to protect them. If you’re running errands, it’s always safest to leave your furry friend at home where they are cool and comfortable. This one rule is non-negotiable for responsible pet ownership.
Is the Pavement Too Hot for Their Paws?
We all love taking our dogs for walks when the weather’s nice and the sun is shining. However, sometimes the surfaces they walk on can become super-heated from the sun, which can injure and burn their paw pads. Even loose gravel surfaces can become so hot that it could burn their paws.
Tip: To prevent injury, check the temperature of the pavement by placing the backside of your hand on the ground and holding it there for five seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is definitely too hot for your pup’s paws. Another way to avoid paw pad burns is by walking your dog early in the morning before the ground heats up, or in the evening after the sun has gone down when the pavement has had a chance to cool down.
Offer Plenty of Water and Shade
As with people, dehydration can also affect dogs and cats. What’s more, both dogs and cats love to sunbathe in the hot sun, which can unintentionally cause them to overheat and suffer from heat exhaustion.
Tip: Prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion by ensuring your pets always have access to fresh, clean water, both indoors, outdoors, and in their kennel. Keep multiple bowls around the house ensuring they can always find water when they’re thirsty. Additionally, carry plenty of water when driving around town with your pet, when walking them, or when taking them to the dog park. Whether you’re spending time outdoors together or you leave them outside for a short amount of time while you run errands, it is also essential to provide them with a shady spot to cool off.
Recognize the Signs of Heatstroke in Pets
In addition to keeping your pet hydrated and protected from the hot sun, familiarizing yourself with the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion can help save your pet’s life. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), some common warning signs and symptoms of dehydration include:
- Excessive drooling
- Dry, sticky gums
- Loss of appetite
- Heavy panting
- Sunken eyes
- Low energy or lethargy
- Dry nose
After spending a lot of time in the sun and heat, it is easy for pets to overheat as their internal temperatures rise. For dogs, they only cool down through their paw pads and nose, so it’s harder for them to cool down after becoming overly hot. Here are some warning signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion:
- Heavy panting
- Thick drool
- Dry, sticky, bright red gums
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Wobbly legs
- Low energy or lethargy
Pets at a Higher Risk for Heatstroke
While all pets can be affected by the heat, some are more vulnerable than others. It's crucial to be extra cautious if your companion is very young, a senior, or overweight. Certain health conditions also increase the risk. Brachycephalic, or short-nosed breeds, like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Persian cats, have a particularly hard time in the heat. Their compact airways make it much less efficient for them to cool down through panting. If your furry friend falls into one of these categories, it’s best to limit their time outdoors on hot, humid days and always monitor them closely for any signs of distress.
Why a Doghouse Isn't Enough to Beat the Heat
Many people believe a doghouse provides a cool escape from the sun, but it can actually have the opposite effect. A standard doghouse lacks proper ventilation and can trap heat, quickly turning into an oven on a hot day. Remember, dogs don't sweat like we do to cool down; they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paws. A hot, stuffy doghouse makes this process nearly impossible. The safest place for your pet during a heatwave is indoors with you in an air-conditioned space. If they must be outside, ensure they have a well-ventilated, shady spot with a constant breeze and access to plenty of cool, fresh water.
Don't Forget Flea and Tick Prevention
Parasite-carrying pests like fleas and ticks are highly active during the summer. Fleas can cause a number of issues for pets and their guardians, too. When fleas infest a dog, their bites cause severe itching, which can lead to hair loss, inflammation, and other skin infections that can reduce their quality of life. Ticks pose an even greater threat for both pets and people, as tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease and other diseases can be devastating for your health and the health of your pet.
Tip: Start your pet on flea and tick prevention as soon as flea and tick season starts in your region. Use this handy tool provided by the AKC to find out your state’s flea and tick season. Talk to your vet about the type of preventative medication they recommend for your pet. If you want to save on your flea and tick preventatives, visit My Hooves and Paws to find all the top treatments, including monthly chewable flea and tick treatments, flea and tick spray, flea and tick shampoo, insect repellents for pets, and natural flea and tick treatments.
Why Heartworm Medicine is a Must
In addition to fleas and ticks, mosquitoes carry and transmit parasites that cause heartworm disease, a severe and potentially life-threatening disease that affects dogs and, in some instances, cats. Dogs are natural hosts for heartworms, which are foot-long parasites that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. If a dog becomes infected with heartworms, it can cause:
- Lung disease
- Damage to other organs
- Heart failure
It is of the utmost importance to protect your dog from heartworms year-round, but especially during the summer when mosquitoes are more active.
Tip: Talk to your vet about which heartworm medication they recommend for your pet. Keep in mind that they will consider age and weight when determining the right preventative for your pet. Additionally, scheduling your pet for annual wellness exams gives your vet a chance to perform a heartworm test and begin treatment when an infection is present.
Visit My Hooves and Paws to shop for a canine dewormer, insect repellent for dogs, and other methods for heartworm prevention, where you’ll always enjoy the lowest prices on your pet medication.
Practice Safe Fun in the Water
Both people and pets enjoy cooling off in cool water to beat the heat. While many dogs are excellent swimmers, it’s still a good idea to have additional protection should unexpected circumstances occur. Whether you take your buddy boating, to swim in the lake, or you spend the day at the beach, make sure your dog wears a life jacket as an added level of safety. The life jacket should fit them snugly for maximum protection. Check out our selection of Ruffwear life jackets for dogs. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles.
Find Your Summer Pet Essentials
No matter which pet supplies you need to keep your precious companion healthy and happy this summer, we have what you’re looking for. My Hooves and Paws proudly carries all the best pet supplies for all your pets from top brands like Ruffwear, Doggles, Noble Pet, Earth Animal, Thomas Labs, Zymox, and so much more! The best part is, you can always enjoy the lowest prices, fast (and often free) shipping, friendly customer service, and a commitment to 100% customer satisfaction. Find all your pet supplies at My Hooves and Paws and save!
Keeping Pets Safe During the Holidays
The holiday season brings so much joy, from festive decorations to cozy nights by the fire. But for our curious four-legged family members, this magical time can also introduce some unexpected hazards. A little bit of planning can go a long way in making sure the holidays are happy and safe for everyone. By taking a few simple steps to pet-proof your home for the festivities, you can relax and enjoy the season, knowing your best friend is protected from the most common seasonal dangers that can pop up around the house.
Hazards from Decorations and Lights
Twinkling lights and shiny ornaments are beautiful, but they can look like irresistible new toys to a curious pet. To avoid any trouble, it’s a good idea to place your Christmas tree in a corner to make it more stable and harder for an excited dog or cat to knock over. Keep delicate or small ornaments on higher branches where pets can't reach them, and securely hide all electrical wires to prevent chewing. Tinsel is particularly dangerous, as it can cause serious internal blockages if ingested. Instead of tempting fate, try distracting your pet with their own festive, durable cat toys or chews to keep their attention focused on something safe and fun.
Dangers of Christmas Tree Water
That water bowl under the Christmas tree might seem like a convenient drink for your pet, but it’s a major no-go. Stagnant tree water can be a breeding ground for bacteria, and it often contains preservatives or fertilizers from the tree that are toxic to animals. It's best to use a covered tree stand to prevent them from taking a sip. The holidays also bring many beautiful plants indoors, but several are poisonous to pets. According to the San Diego Humane Society, popular plants like mistletoe, holly, lilies, and poinsettias can be toxic if ingested, so keep them well out of reach or opt for artificial versions instead.
Fire Safety Around Candles and Fireplaces
A warm fire and glowing candles create a perfect holiday atmosphere, but open flames are a clear risk for pets. A happy, wagging tail can easily knock over a candle, and a curious cat might get too close to the fireplace. Always place lit candles on high, stable surfaces where your pets can’t reach them, and never leave them unattended. For a worry-free option, consider using battery-operated flameless candles. If you have a fireplace, make sure you always use a sturdy screen in front of it to protect your pets from sparks and prevent them from getting too close to the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think my pet has heatstroke? If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, you need to act immediately. First, move them out of the heat and into a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned space. Offer them small sips of cool water, but don't force them to drink. You can help lower their body temperature by applying cool, damp towels to their head, neck, and chest, or by wetting their paws. It's critical that you call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away for further instructions, as heatstroke is a serious medical emergency.
My pet ate something they shouldn't have. What's the first thing I should do? The first step is to stay calm and gather information. Try to identify exactly what your pet ate, how much they consumed, and when it happened. Then, immediately call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Do not try to induce vomiting unless you are specifically instructed to do so by a professional, as it can sometimes make the situation worse. Having the product packaging handy when you call can provide the expert with the crucial information they need to help.
Is it really that bad to let my dog ride with their head out the car window? While it looks like fun, letting your dog hang their head out of a moving car is incredibly risky. The high-speed wind can seriously irritate their eyes and may even cause permanent damage from flying debris like rocks or insects. It also puts them at risk for ear injuries and lung infections. Most importantly, a sudden stop or swerve could cause them to be thrown from the vehicle. Using a proper car restraint is a much safer way to travel together.
Besides checking the pavement, how can I protect my dog's paws in the summer? Protecting your dog's paws is a great way to keep them comfortable. Try to walk them on grass or dirt paths whenever possible, and plan your walks for the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening. You can also apply a protective paw balm before you head out, which creates a barrier against hot surfaces. For dogs with particularly sensitive feet or for longer walks on unavoidable pavement, a good pair of dog booties can offer excellent protection.
What are the most important things to have in a pet first-aid kit? Having a basic first-aid kit ready can make a huge difference in an emergency. A good starting point includes gauze pads, adhesive tape, and non-stick bandages to manage minor wounds. You should also have antiseptic wipes, saline solution for flushing out debris, and a pair of blunt-tipped scissors. Most importantly, keep a card with the phone numbers for your veterinarian, the nearest 24-hour emergency vet clinic, and the Animal Poison Control Center right inside the kit.
Key Takeaways
- Audit Your Home and Yard for Dangers: Make your pet's environment truly safe by securing household toxins and dangerous foods, regularly inspecting toys for wear and tear, and ensuring your fence is free of any potential escape routes.
- Build a Safety Net with Proactive Habits: Your best defense is preparation. Solid training commands, up-to-date ID tags and microchips, and consistent preventative care like parasite control and vet check-ups can prevent accidents and health crises.
- Master the Rules of Summer Safety: The heat is a serious risk. Never leave a pet in a parked car, always test the pavement with your hand before a walk, and ensure constant access to fresh water and shade to prevent life-threatening heatstroke.
