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5 Animal Care Tips for Summer

With the hot, hot weather we have had this month, it feels like summer is off to an early start—not that we are complaining! That said, it is essential to look out for our beloved pets when the temperatures start to rise. Our furry friends can be as sensitive to extreme temperatures as their owners. Here are 5 ways to keep your animal safe while enjoying summer together!

Time for a big summer clean!

Are you doing a big clean of the house and back yard? Make sure to also clean all of your pet items: carpets, beds, cages, toys, etc. At Chico, we have a wide variety of products to neutralize unpleasant odours, like urine and excrement, and household cleaning products for daily use. Let’s start summer feeling fresh! 

Beat the heat

Humans are not the only ones who can get overwhelmed by the heat. But unlike us, animals have a limited ability to cope with high temperatures. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, unlike humans, who can sweat and release heat from our skin and thus our entire bodies. At Chico, we love this cooling mat that helps your furry companion maintain a comfortable temperature. Dehydration can also be a major problem for our pets in the summer. Some studies show that flat-faced animals, like pugs and Persian cats, can not pant as effectively, making them more susceptible to heat stroke. You should also keep an eye on older and overweight animals, as well as those with heart or pulmonary disease. In the summer, make sure that your pet always has access to lots of fresh water and avoid letting them play outside at the hottest times of day. This portable water bowl is super practical for when you are out and about! 

UV protection for all!

Some animals, especially those with short hair and pink skin, can be susceptible to sunburns. Ask your Chico expert what types of UV protection products are safest for your pet’s skin, and apply their sunscreen regularly as part of your summer routine. Never use sunscreen that is not specially designed for animals—ingesting the wrong kinds of sunscreen can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy in pets. In addition to these products, you can also opt for protective accessories like light-weight apparel or a hat. 

Repel insects like a pro

Ticks and other summer bugs pose a risk to pets. Not only can bugs carry disease, but some repellents are harmful to your pet’s health. Fertilizer and pesticides may be great for the look of your lawn, but they can be very dangerous to your pet. It is best to keep grass cut short in areas where your pet plays to reduce the number of ticks and other pests. Also be on the lookout for fertilizer signs on your neighbours’ lawns when walking your dog. Refer to this blog article to learn more about the best ways to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other pests that are more active in summer months.

Swim safe!

Like all other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about planning ahead. It can be fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to cool off with you, but make sure to keep an eye on them when they are in or near the water. Even a strong swimmer may have trouble getting out of a pool or may get caught on ropes or other obstacles. When going on riskier summer adventures with your dog, like sailing, considering purchasing a dog life jacket. It is an important investment for their safety!

Now you are all set to enjoy summer with complete peace of mind. Watch your pet like you would a young child, protect them from heat, the sun and other summer dangers for a great summer season!