All About Pets • Volume 3 • Issue 2 • Jan–Apr 2023 8 ESSENTIALS Summer Care for Pets As pets do not sweat it out the same way as humans, summer could cause uneasiness and health issues in pets. The most common are overheating, sunburn, dehydration, and stroke. Grooming A change in weather means changing needs for pets. Keeping your pet well-groomed is necessary to make him/her feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Grooming includes periodic fur trimming (to prevent any tangles and knots) and nail clipping. In addition, it is important to look out for external parasites like ticks, fleas, and lice, because these organisms get more active during summer, and their infection leads to symptoms like fever, vomiting, and itching. Pet parents should be watchful of these symptoms. Use shampoos that have ingredients with cooling properties, such as Aloe vera. Diet During summer, there is a high risk of dehydration. Hence, it is important to give pets a lot of liquids to keep them hydrated. Provide wet food during hotter months, to increase fluid intake. Exercise During summer, keep exercises minimal and indoors, in cooler environments. Outdoor activities should be limited to early mornings or late evenings, when it is not too hot. Observe for symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, dizziness, and increased heart rate, and stop exercising the pet in case he/she is feeling uneasy. Allow pets to rest in cool places, preferably indoors; and if they are taken outdoors, they should be kept in cool, shady places. They should not be left alone inside cars, as the temperature inside the car can go up to 40°C in 10 minutes. Follow these tips to let your pets have a blissful summer. In case you observe any symptoms or signs of uneasiness in your pet, consult a veterinarian for the right treatment.
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