How to Keep Pets Safe in Michigan Summer Heat

2025-06-15 21:27:00

Keeping Your furry Friends Safe This Summer

as the summer sun intensifies, pet owners should take extra precautions to ensure their animals stay healthy and happy.

• Ensure your pets have proper identification and are up-to-date on vaccinations.
• Provide ample amounts of cool, clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration.
• avoid feeding your pets human foods that could be harmful.

What are the best ways to keep pets safe during the summer months? According to State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, simple steps like proper identification and hydration can make a big difference. With summer’s arrival, pet owners should be proactive in safeguarding their companions.

Did you know?–Microchips are a permanent form of ID. Unlike collars,they can’t be lost. Ensure your pet’s microchip details is always up-to-date with your current contact details.

Travel Smart

Before embarking on any summer travels, ensure your animals have all the necessary documentation, vaccinations, tests, and treatments. Vaccinations are vital,shielding pets from diseases like rabies,leptospirosis,and distemper. Consult with your veterinarian to confirm your pets are travel-ready. For further details, check out the MDARD’s Animal ID and Movement page and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Pet travel website.

Let it Flow

Just like us,animals can quickly become dehydrated in the heat. Always provide your pets with plenty of cool, clean, and fresh water. This simple step is crucial for preventing dehydration and keeping them pleasant throughout the summer months.

Reader question:-How much water does my pet need? A general guideline is one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily, but this can vary based on activity level and weather.

Happy Tummies

It’s tempting to share your snacks,but some human foods can be dangerous for pets. avoid feeding them salty,fatty,or heavily seasoned foods,such as chips,nuts,and meat fat. Chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, and xylitol (found in many candies and gums) can be toxic, and bones can cause injuries or illnesses.

Know Their limits

An animal’s ability to handle heat depends on factors like age, breed, coat type, and health history. Watch for signs of heat stress, such as increased panting, drooling, or lethargy. If you see these signs, move your pet to a cooler location immediately.

Did you know?–Brachycephalic breeds (those with short noses) like bulldogs and pugs are more prone to overheating. Take extra care to keep them cool and avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather.

Look Before They Splash

be cautious around bodies of water, avoiding areas with harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms are caused by a rapid growth of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. To prevent illness, keep animals away from scummy or discolored water, rinse them off after any contact, and always provide fresh water for drinking. If your pet becomes sick after contact with a suspected HAB,contact your veterinarian right away.

Animal illnesses due to HABs should be reported to MDARD. Use the Reportable Disease Form or call 800-292-3939. To report suspicious algae,email [email protected].

Search No More

Outdoor adventures can easily lead to lost pets. Make sure your pets have up-to-date identification tags and/or microchips with your current contact information. This greatly increases the chances of a safe return if they wander off.

Small Circle of Friends

Protect your pets by keeping them away from wildlife, ill animals, and animals of unknown health status.Both domestic and wild animals can carry diseases, so it’s best to keep your pet away from any unfamiliar creatures.

Pro tip:-When walking your dog, choose cooler times of day, like early morning or late evening, to avoid hot pavement that can burn their paws.

These tips can keep your animals safe and healthy during the summer.If you have any concerns about your pet’s health,consult your veterinarian.

Summertime Frist Aid for Pets

Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen.Knowing basic pet first aid can make a meaningful difference in an emergency, giving your furry friend the best chance of a full recovery. Be prepared to act quickly, and always follow up with a vet visit, even if your pet seems okay after an incident. Remember, as previously discussed, being proactive is key to keeping your pets safe throughout the summer.

A well-stocked pet first-aid kit is essential. It should include:

• Gauze pads and bandage material
• Antiseptic wipes or solution (like povidone-iodine)
• Medical tape
• blunt-tipped scissors
• Tweezers
• Digital thermometer (for rectal use)
• Saline solution (for flushing wounds or eyes)
• Emergency contact facts for your vet and the nearest emergency animal clinic

Additionally, consider adding a pet first-aid book or online resource to your kit for easy reference, providing peace of mind and guidance in high-stress situations. Proper identification is also a must, so use those up-to-date tags and microchips!

What should I do if my pet gets a cut or wound? Carefully examine the wound and determine the extent of the injury. Assess hydration and body temperature, as discussed previously, before contacting your local veterinary clinic.

Here are some basic first-aid steps to follow:

• Control the bleeding: Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean gauze pad.
• Clean the wound: Gently flush the wound with cool, clean water or saline solution. Avoid using harsh antiseptics unless directed by a veterinarian.
• Cover the wound: Apply a sterile dressing and bandage to protect the wound and keep it clean.
• Monitor the pet: Watch for signs of infection (swelling, redness, pus, fever) and changes in behavior.

Heatstroke is a severe risk during the summer months. Recognise heatstroke early for the best outcome. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, rapid heart rate, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect heatstroke:

• Move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately.
• Apply cool (not cold) water to their body, especially the head, neck, and paws. You could use a wet towel or hose.
• offer small amounts of cool water to drink.
• Seek veterinary care immediately.

Can I give my pet any medications? Never administer human medications to your pet without consulting your veterinarian. Many human medications are toxic to animals.

Summertime also brings the potential for insect bites and stings. If your pet is stung,remove the stinger if visible,and apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling and pain. Your vet can also advise about antihistamines or other treatments.

Caution: Not all insects are hazardous, but be aware of ticks during warm months. Check your pets regularly, remove the ticks properly (using tweezers), and contact your vet for advice on tick-borne diseases.

Knowing how to handle common summer emergencies can make a huge difference.Preparing ahead of time will make you feel better and is best for your pets.

Pet First Aid FAQs

What should I do if my pet is bitten by a snake?

First, stay calm. Keep your pet still and calm to slow the spread of venom. Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Do not attempt to treat the bite yourself, and do not apply a tourniquet or try to suck out the venom.Transport your pet to the vet as quickly and safely as possible.

How can I tell if my pet has a fever?

The normal body temperature for dogs and cats is between 100.5°F and 102.5°F (38.1°C and 39.2°C). Use a rectal thermometer to take your pet’s temperature.If your pet’s temperature is above 102.5°F, it has a fever, and you should contact your vet.

What are the signs of poisoning in pets?

Signs of poisoning can vary widely, depending on the substance ingested. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, tremors, seizures, difficulty breathing, and loss of coordination. Contact your vet immediately, or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control