With the Summer comes lots of outdoor activity and play for your beloved pets. Although your dog or cat might love a bit of sunshine and leisurely strolls around the neighborhood, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep Fido and Fluffy as safe as possible.

The outdoor heat and Sun can very quickly place your pet in harms way if you’re not careful and or mindful of what he or she is doing and if they’re not properly prepared for it. However there are some precautions you can take to make sure your pet is safe and sound and has a great time outside.

4 Ways To Keep Your Pets Cool This Summer

1. Protective Gear

One thing any pet owner can do to keep Fido as cool as possible during a hot Sunny day is to put on some protective gear such as a white 100% cotton t shirt that absorbs the sweat away from your pooch. Make sure the t shirt is of a cotton, hemp or bamboo fabric to keep moisture at bay and provide a cooling effect. You can find these at most good pet stores such as Pet Smart or online via various pet shops or even Amazon. Your pet will be happier and more able to play around without suffering from too much heat exhaustion.

2. Water, Water and Water

Another simple, low cost and effective solution to keeping your pet safe from the outdoor heat is to carry along plenty of clean and fresh water for Fluffy. Make sure he or she has plenty to drink BEFORE you leave the house, but also once you’re out and about as well. Like you would for yourself carry along a water bottle and place plenty of ice in it to keep the water cool and bring an extra bottle for your sweet pooch. This will ensure your animal is hydrated and refreshed.

3. Shade Is His Friend

Don’t underestimate how simple bringing your pet over to a nice shaded tree area can provide needed relief from the powerful rays of the Sun. Sometimes a shaded area will also have a nice breeze which everyone knows on a hot day can feel like heaven. So whether you are running, walking or jogging along with your dog, stop every once in a while and hit a nearby shaded tree to get some of that sweet needed breeze and relief from the heat.

4. Know When It’s Time To Stop

Just because YOU might be able to withstand a 95 degree day and run or jog for three plus hours, doesn’t necessarily mean your pooch can. Take into consideration the age, breed and size of your pet when making plans outdoors that will require a good amount of time in the heat and or Sun. If your pet is breathing heavily, has run out of steam while running or walking, etc – pay attention to these clues and give him or her a break. It might be time to go home and call it a day. You can then soak in the tub and make sure your pet has plenty of clean, fresh and cold water to drink when you both get back home. Maybe give him a soak in the tub, too.

Summer is fun and should be an enjoyable experience for everyone in your family, including your pooch. Go out there and play fetch, run or jog and don’t forget the doggy beach as your pet might so love this. Assuming he loves the water.

About the Author

Missy is a proud mommy to a senior Maine Coon named Troubly who turned 13 years old this year and who during the day writes for Vet Depot, a fun online web shop dedicated to discount pet products.