Keeping Your Home & Pets Healthy & Happy This Summer
As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, summertime brings joy and adventure for both humans and our furry companions. However, along with the fun and excitement, the season also presents unique challenges for keeping your home and pets healthy. From staying cool and hydrated to preventing pests and accidents, here are some essential tips to ensure a happy and healthy summer for you and your beloved pets.
1. Hydration is Key
Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure to provide clean, fresh water for your pets at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Consider placing multiple water bowls around your home and replenishing them frequently, especially if you have multiple pets or spend time outdoors with them. If you’re heading out for a walk or a hike, bring along a portable water bottle and bowl for your pet to drink from.
2. Provide Shade and Shelter
When the sun is beating down, it’s important to provide your pets with shade and shelter to escape the heat. If your pets spend time outdoors, make sure they have access to a shady spot where they can relax and cool off. Consider setting up a canopy or umbrella in your backyard, or provide a doghouse or covered porch where your pets can seek refuge from the sun’s rays. Remember, pets can suffer from heatstroke if left in direct sunlight for too long, so always provide ample shade and a cool place to retreat to.
3. Practice Safe Exercise
While it’s important to keep your pets active and engaged, be mindful of the temperature and humidity levels when exercising outdoors. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, such as midday to early afternoon, when temperatures are at their peak. Instead, opt for early morning or late evening walks when it’s cooler outside. Keep an eye on your pet for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy, and take frequent breaks in the shade to rest and hydrate.
4. Protect Against Pests*
Summertime brings out a variety of pests, from fleas and ticks to mosquitoes and flies, which can pose health risks to your pets. Keep your home and yard free of pests by regularly vacuuming and cleaning indoor spaces, and using pet-safe insect repellents and flea and tick preventatives as recommended by your veterinarian. When spending time outdoors, consider using pet-friendly mosquito repellents and avoiding areas with standing water where mosquitoes breed. Check your pets regularly for ticks and other parasites, and remove them promptly to prevent infections and disease.
5. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Despite our best efforts, accidents and emergencies can still happen, so it’s important to be prepared. Make sure your pets are up to date on vaccinations and preventive care, and have a first aid kit on hand for minor injuries and illnesses. Familiarize yourself with the signs of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses, and know what to do if your pet shows symptoms. Keep emergency contact information for your veterinarian and local animal hospital readily available, and know how to get help in case of an emergency.
With a little planning and precaution, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for both your home and your pets. By providing ample shade and water, practicing safe exercise, protecting against pests, and being prepared for emergencies, you can keep your furry friends healthy and happy all season long. So get out there, soak up the sunshine, and make the most of summertime with your beloved pets by your side! 🌞🐾
Contact Us
Spencer Heating and Air is here to keep you and your pets cool and comfortable all summer long. If you a new air conditioning system or need service or repair on your existing system, give us a call. We’ve served the Auburn and Opelika area for more than 50 years with honest and courteous HVAC service.
Spencer Heating and Air is a trusted American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Customer Care Dealer in Auburn, AL. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
