Top tips for keeping your pets cool and calm during the summer months
It's so important to make sure your prepared during the hot weather to care for your furry friends, livestock and especially your garden wildlife. Here are some quick and easy tips to make sure your pets and other animals stay healthy and safe during the hot summer months.
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1. Keep your pets cool
All pets must be kept in cool, shady areas. It is important to bring pets indoors on hot, humid and sunny days. If you're feeling warm, then it's more than likely that they will be too.
2. Small pets need help too
Small pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs and birds really struggle in the heat. Make sure these animals are either indoors or sheltered as they will benefit from the cool tiles and shady areas .If this is not possible, drape their cage with wet towels and provide a sturdy ice -pack or frozen water bottle for the animal to lean against, so it can regulate its own body temperature. Make sure the animals' enclosures are out of direct sunlight. Remember shade moves throughout the day so be sure to keep an eye on your pet and protect them from the sun.
3. Fresh water
Provide plenty of fresh, cool water in large water containers and replace this throughout the day. It's recommended you provide multiple sources of water around the home or enclosure in case one becomes split or leaks. Ensure the containers are in the shade and add some ice to the water to keep it cool.
4. Take a dip
Position a pool in a shaded area of your garden and fill it with water so your dog can keep cool. If your pet's share your garden or outside space with children, remember to have all necessary precautions in place, including fencing, in order to keep children safe.
5. Don't walk on hot days
Walking your dog when the ground is too hot can cause serious damage to their paws. If the ground is too hot for you to walk on bare foot then it's too hot for your furry friends paws. To check the ground place your hand down for five seconds - if it's too hot avoid walking your dog. Instead, walk your dog in the early morning or evening when the temperature is lower and direct sunlight isn't warming up the ground.
Avoiding the heat helps protect your pet from potentially painful paws and it will help you and your pet enjoy the walk more.
6. Keep them comfortable
If your pet appears to be over heating or displaying discomfort, try wetting their feet and misting water onto their face. This is an option for dogs, cats, ferrets, poultry and caged birds as many animals control their inner temperature through their feet so adding cold water will help them regulate their Body temperatures . However avoid pouring a large amount of water over your pets face and especially birds feathers as this can cause them to go into shock.
7. Livestock and horses
Make sure your horses and livestock have access to shady areas, and provide extra water during hot weather to avoid dehydration. Keep a closer eye on your pets in the warm weather and be sure to provide treats to cool them down.
8. Animals in hot cars
Never, under any circumstances leave your animal in a car especially in the warm weather. It will take a matter of minutes for your furry friend to suffer a harsh and inhumane death if left in the heat of a locked car.
9. Don't forget about your local wildlife
Pets aren't the only ones who suffer in the heat. Give your garden wildlife a helping hand by filling up bowls of water or bird baths so they can bath and re hydrate. You can also serve live mealworms which contain moisture or soak some of your bird see in water. Ponds are also a great source of water for birds and mammals so add a ramp or gentle slope into your pond to help them venture in and out.
10. Keep an eye out for Snakes
As the sun warms up the ground, cold blooded snakes become more active. Watch where you tread and keep an eye out in shady areas to avoid startling a snake.
11. Sunburnt snouts
Little pink noses are cute, but can easily become sunburnt. Your pet needs a special sunscreen to protect it from the discomfort of sunburn and the added risk of skin cancer.
12. Fleas and ticks
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The hot summer months are a prime time for fleas and ticks, with itches and bites adding to the discomfort heat can cause your pets.
Fleas can be very unpleasant for both your pet and your home, and Bubbles of Ongar offers several trusted products for your pets flea treatment and also for treatment of your home.
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13. Look out for toxic plants
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There are many common household plants that can be toxic to animals if ingested.
One of the more dangerous plants is Lilies and these are particularly toxic for cats. Other summer plants to avoid, include Gladiolas, Hydrangea and Ivy.
Signs that might suggest your pet has eaten a poisonous plant can include vomiting, lethargy, drooling and seizures. If you suspect your pet has poisoning, it is advisable to take him to your vet with any material involved, such as chewed-up plant matter, so that your vet can get a better idea of what they're treating.
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14. Fireworks and thunderstorms
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The loud noises associated with fireworks or thunderstorms is one of the most prevalent phobias in animals, and results in tens of thousands of them demonstrating destructive behaviour, escaping from their properties and injuring themselves.
Signs that your pet is stressed or feeling anxious includes excessive panting, shaking, pacing around and also drinking more - so make sure their water bowls are filled up to the brim.
Bubbles of Ongar have several trusted products in store, ranging from natural and effective calming plug - in diffusers and sprays for all year round use with your pets.
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