Summer is well and truly upon us and many Cleveland pet owners simply can't wait to be able to spend more time outside with their furbaby.

However, if you are a new pet parent, you might not realize that the hottest season of the year also presents some challenges when it comes to keeping your precious pet safe from harm.

We are committed to supporting owners of pets in our care to understand the dangers that can be present in summer and helping them to find the best ways to keep their adored animals safe from harm. With that in mind, here are our favorite tips to keep your pet safe this summer!

Avoid Prolonged Exposure to the Sun

It seems obvious for us as humans, but many pet owners don't realize that it is equally as dangerous for their pets to spend long periods of time in the sun. Sunburn in pets is most definitely a 'thing' and you can and should buy sunscreen to help protect your furry friend, especially if they have a short coat.

Check the Ground Temperature before You Let Your Pet Out

When the temperatures reach their peak the ground beneath our feet can heat up to blistering levels. If it is too hot for you to walk outside barefoot, it is most certainly too hot for your pet. If they walk on scorching sand or asphalt, they could burn their paws and require medical attention so it's important to check the ground temperature before you let your pet go outside.

Water and Shade Cannot Be Underestimated

It's fine for your pet to be outside during the day so long as they have access to two crucial things - water and shade. Whether they are inside or out, they will need to drink significantly more during the summer as dehydration is a very real possibility and can be fatal. Our pets don't have the ability to regulate their body temperatures as well as humans, so we need to make sure we offer shade so that they can rest somewhere a little cooler. Failing to do so could put your pet at risk of heatstroke, another very serious condition.

Mind What Food You Share

Most pet owners are happy to share a little of what they are eating with their furbaby, but there are some summer foods that aren't advisable to give to our pets because they are toxic and could make them very sick. These include grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, avocado and guacamole, candy, and excessive amounts of ice cream. Alcohol, undercooked meat and meat containing bones can also be dangerous for your pet so make sure that any of these foods are kept well away from your furry friend.

Parasite Prevention Is Crucial

Hopefully, your pet is already on a parasite prevention program already, but if they aren't, you will need to speak to our vet about getting them on one immediately. Although parasites can affect your pet at any time of the year, the warmer temperatures of summer mean that certain parasites, including ticks and mosquitos, are more prevalent. Both ticks and mosquitos are well-known for carrying debilitating and serious infectious diseases that could make your pet very sick, or even prove fatal. Therefore, it is essential that your pet is on a strict parasite prevention program that is administered as directed and on time, every time, to ensure your pet has the best protection.

Check Their Chip

Around 1 in 3 pets will be lost or stolen at some point during their lifetime. Microchipping is the most reliable form of identification you can give your pet and studies have found that animals who are microchipped are much more likely to be reunited with their distraught owner. If your pet is microchipped, it is important to make sure that your contact information is up to date, otherwise, you cannot be contacted if your pet is found. If you don't yet have your pet microchipped - what are you waiting for? Speak to our team who will be able to talk to you about this simple and effective process and schedule you an appointment.

If you would like more advice on how to help your pet have a safe summer, our experienced team is ready and waiting to share their expert knowledge with you. Please contact our animal clinic in Cleveland, TN today by calling (423) 479-4760.