5 ways to keep your pet safe as temperatures climb in Birmingham

1 year ago 41

We all know how HOT it gets in Birmingham, and temps are nearing the 100s this week. We may be feeling a little miserable ourselves, but don’t forget about your four-legged friends. High temperatures can lead to dangerous situations for our pets, so it’s very important to pay close attention to your furry friends and help keep them cool right now. Here are five tips to help.

1. Provide shade and water

You know what they say… hydration is key. The same goes for our cats and dogs. Always ensure that your pets have access to water both indoors and outdoors. Pro tip: ice water outside makes for an extra happy pup.

Anytime your pet is outside, be sure to provide protection from the heat and sun. According to The Humane Society,

“Tree shade and tarps are ideal because they don’t obstruct air flow. A doghouse does not provide relief from heat—in fact, it makes it worse.”

3. Watch out for their paws

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Hot asphalt can be harmful and painful for pets. When you do go on a walk, try to keep your pet on grass when you can and avoid dark pavement. If you’re feeling extra like me, dog booties can help prevent hurt paw pads, and they look adorable too.

PS: If it’s too hot for you to touch, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws!

3. Stay indoors during the hottest hours

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The safest way to get you and your pet’s exercise in during the summer is to try and limit your walks to early morning or evening hours. These are the months to let your pet be as lazy as they want, all day long. Can we trade spots?

An important tip from The Greater Birmingham Humane Society:

“NEVER leave your pet in an unattended vehicle. Temperatures can soar to over 100 degrees within minutes, leaving animals inside stranded and facing life-threatening danger. If you see a pet in a hot car, call 911 immediately and try to locate the owners.”

4. Cool off!

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When your pet does spend time outdoors, make sure they’re able to cool off afterwards. Here are some fun ways to do so:

kiddie pools
sprinklers
damp towels
ice cubes
homemade pupsicles

Feeling stir crazy trying to stay indoors? Try these five dog-friendly places to cool off with your pup in The Magic City.

5. Always keep an eye out + stay prepared

During these scorching hot months, stay alert and keep an eye out for signs of your pet overheating. According to our friends at Alabama Spay & Neuter, signs include:

excessive panting
lethargy
drooling
vomiting

PLUS—believe it or not, pets can use sunscreen too. When you’re outside, apply pet-safe sunscreen and try and keep pets in the shade as much as possible.