pet safety tips for the summer months

Summer is such an exciting time of year — backyard BBQs with friends, road trips, camping excursions — you name it! If you’re planning on including your little adventurer in any of these summer escapades, it’s important that you keep their safety in mind. We have some helpful tips below.

Fireworks (and how to reduce anxiety!)

As many of us know all too well, some dogs really dislike fireworks. The 4th of July is a dreaded time of year for our hearing-sensitive friends. While some dogs might cower under the bed or howl, others might run away from the house. Fireworks can be very upsetting to dogs, but fortunately there are ways to help keep them calm. The biggest tip is to bring them inside when fireworks are going off. Taking them to a quiet place in the house, such as a basement or closet, can also help minimize the sounds and reduce anxiety. Or if your dog feels more comfortable in a crate, consider settling them in for some crate time. If this doesn’t work, talk to your vet about pet anxiety medication to help calm your dog’s nerves. Check out our blog entry on keeping pets calm for more info.

Road trip checklist

We live in a time where dogs and cats are more welcome in hotels, at parks, and on public transportation. However, that doesn’t mean you don’t have to plan in advance. If you’re preparing to take your sidekick on the road with you, check out this helpful guide we created. You’ll want to make sure you bring:

• Food, water, and respective bowls
• Medication
• Leash and/or harness
• Poop bags for dogs
  Litter box, scooper, and fresh litter for cats
• Crate or carrier if necessary
• Toys and/or blanket  

It’s also a good idea to call ahead to make sure your hotel, park, or campsite allows dogs or cats.

Tips for camping with your dog or cat

Camping with your furry friend can be a super rewarding experience, but also one you need to plan for. Like road tripping, you’ll want to bring all the essentials: dog food or cat food, water, medication, ID tags, etc. You’ll also want to make sure you have a pet-friendly tent, warm pet clothing should the area get cold at night, a dog or cat bed, and a first aid kit (more info on first aid kids here!). One of the most important things you can do is keep your pet safe from other creatures. Leaving your dog or cat unattended can be a huge risk. Make sure to also secure their food and consider carrying pepper or bear spray in case of an emergency. 

Running, walking, and sweltering side effects

When it’s hot and sunny outside, don’t forget that the ground can get uncomfortably hot for our barefooted pets and even cause serious burns. If you go running on roads, you’ll need to keep your best friend’s feet protected from burning hot asphalt and other surfaces. If it’s uncomfortably hot for you to touch with your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s feet. Booties are a great way to keep your pet’s paws protected, as long as you give them some time and space to get used to them. (Watching them adjust to booties also makes for super cute videos.) 

Whatever your summer plans are, we hope you have a fun and safe time with your adventure buddy!