
When summer starts, many families prepare for vacations, trips away from home, and time on the beach. As you get your home and family ready for summer, don’t forget to include your pet on your checklists! Here are all the ways you need to get your pet ready for summer:
Visit Your Veterinarian
Make sure your pet is up to date on all of his vaccinations, and is in good overall health. This is especially important if you plan on taking your pet on vacation with you and you won’t have access to his regular veterinarian. It’s equally important if you plan on boarding your pet or leaving him with a pet sitter while you’re on vacation.
Schedule an Appointment with the Groomer
Some pets have thick, heavy coats that make them very uncomfortable during the hot summer months. Schedule a visit to your pet groomer to take care of your pet’s undercoat and get him comfortable for hot weather.
Revisit Flea, Tick, & Heartworm Meds
Summer is a great time to do your annual check of your pet’s flea, tick, and heartworm meds, especially if you’re going out of town. Check-in with your veterinarian and make sure the meds your pet is on are still working.
Stay Hydrated
Just as humans need to stay hydrated throughout the summer, so do your pets! Make sure your pet has access to plenty of clean, fresh drinking water. You should change out his drinking water every day. Don’t leave your pet outside alone, and bring him back inside after about 20 minutes out in the heat.
Recognize the Signs of Overheating
Your pet can become a victim of heat exhaustion much quicker than you think. Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion, and talk to your veterinarian about how to prevent overheating in pets. Common signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, dry or pale gums, trouble breathing, increased drooling, rapid pulse, weakness, extreme thirst, confusion, vomiting, diarrhea, and being hot to the touch.
If your pet is overdue on vaccinations or you need to prepare him for boarding at a kennel, visit your veterinarian.