Harsh summers aren’t just tough on us but hard on our pets too. If your pet seems dehydrated, is resting more than usual, or has a reduced appetite, it’s likely trying to cope with the heat. Both cats and dogs have their ways of dealing with high temperatures, but they still need our help to stay safe and comfortable. Here are some pointers which one should keep in mind as a pet parent to keep their pet healthy in this intense summer heat:-

1. Hydration

1. It is important to add the necessary amount of fluids to your pet’s diet to ensure hydration. One way of doing this is by purchasing water dispensers and water fountains. 

1. Water dispensers continuously provide your dog with cool fresh water, this can be extremely beneficial if the pet parent is working long days and is unable to change water bowls. 

2. Water fountains are especially beneficial as animals in general prefer flowing or moving water over stale and stagnant making it easier for them to drink water and stay hydrated.

2. Bone Broths are also a great way of ensuring hydration for your cats and dogs. Bone Broth is an aromatic alternative to traditional water which is rich in necessary electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and magnesium which are essential in retaining body fluids which are lost via the summer sweat. There are several ways of serving bone broth which include:-

1. The most common method of serving bone broth is by mixing it with the kibble or, the cat or dog food being served.

2. Another way of increasing your pet’s hydration with the help of bone broth is by mixing it with the water being served to your pet.

3. A more fun of serving bone broth is by making bone broth popsicles or gummies with a treat, a piece of fruit (such as a piece of carrot or strawberry) or a vegetable (such as a piece of carrot or a cucumber) at its core. This would not only help with hydration but also help regulate your pet’s body temperature.

2. Walk when cool

1. It is highly advised to take your dogs out for walks only when the temperature has cooled down, such as early mornings, late evenings or at night. Making your dog exercise in high temperatures can easily increase the chances of dehydration and even heat strokes.

2. It is also advised to make use of paw balm as the hot pavements can cause paw burns.

3. Guard against Fleas and Ticks

1. Ticks and fleas become more prevalent in dogs during summer which is why it is best to keep preventive measures in place.

2. Consult your vet for necessary measures and avoid any form of self-medication as this can lead to serious health complications.

4. Brush Regularly

1. Regular brushing of your pet’s coat is essential in summer as it can:-

1. Removing loose hair

2. Prevent matting

3. Improve air circulation in the coat

4. Improve blood circulation

5. Help with ticks and fleas

2. It is also advisable to use hemp oil as it keeps the skin and coat healthy and also helps in reducing hair fall.

5. Never leave your pet alone in a closed car

1. DO NOT under any circumstances leave your pet alone in a closed car, in case you really do need to, leave a portion of the window open to keep air circulation. 

2. Leaving a dog or a cat alone in a closed car can lead to dehydration, suffocation, heat stroke or, in some scenarios, even death.

6. Heatstroke

1. Symptoms of Heatstroke include:

1. Dry eyes or unconscious

2. Panting

3. High body temperature

4. Sticky Saliva

5. Reg gums and tongue

6. Wobbly walking or collapse

7. Vomiting

2. If these symptoms are prevalent, then cool your pet at home first with the help of a wet towel before taking them to the vet.

7. Do’s and Don’t’s