It’s getting hot in South Carolina. Do you know the best way to keep your pets safe?
Who doesn’t love when the weather gets a little warmer and you can take your pets with you to the park, beach, and even when running errands!
With it getting warmer, we want to help you keep your furry friends safe this summer.
General tips:
Always keep water with you to keep your pet hydrated on trips to the park, beach, & other outings.
Don’t shave long-haired animals. Their coat can protect them from sunburn and can be effective at cooling their body. Brushing is a good alternative and can help get rid of excess hair.
Know the signs of your pet overheating. Overheating can look like excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, or even collapse. Your pet may also experience seizures, bloody diarrhea, vomit, and a higher body temperature.
If your pet does overheat, NEVER douse them in water. It can send them into hypothermia and harm them. If your pet overheats, soak towels in lukewarm water to help provide relief, take them out of the sun, and avoid rapid cooling techniques.
When traveling with your pet in a car:
NEVER leave them in a car that is not running. Temperatures can rapidly rise and while it may feel nice outside, can turn into a sauna in a car.
When out for a walk:
Test the pavement with the back of your hand. If you cannot keep your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds due to heat, it is too hot for your pet.
Stick to grassy or non-paved paths. Pavement, concrete, & asphalt heat up faster than non-paved paths.
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