Summer is fast approaching and all of us at Ypsilanti Animal Clinic are excited to enjoy this time of the year with our pets. But before getting carried away with outdoor activities, our veterinarians recommend taking a few precautions before heading out into the heat.

  • Never leave your pet in a car. It doesn’t matter if your car is running and your air conditioner is on. Leaving your pet alone in a car exposes them to serious health risks. 
  • Keep fresh water with you wherever you go. If you’re heading out for a sunny day at the dog park or for a hike on the trail, don’t forget to bring enough water for you and your pet. Even if you’re simply lounging outside, the midday heat can take a lot of energy out of your pet and they need to stay hydrated. 
  • Check for ticks regularly. Now that the weather is heating up, tall grass and wooded areas are packed with parasites that pose serious health risks for your pet. It only takes a few minutes to scan your pet’s fur, and those few minutes can mean the difference between health and serious illness. While you’re at it, check with your veterinarian to make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date.
  • Consider trimming your cat’s or dog’s coat. Breeds with thicker fur overheat much faster than short hair pets. If your cat or dog is going to be outside often this summer, it’s worth discussing a shorter coat for the hotter months with your veterinarian or with a groomer.
  • Watch for signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salvation, vomiting, a dep red or purple tongue, seizure and unconsciousness. If your pet is exhibiting symptoms of heatstroke, bring them to Ypsilanti Animal Clinic immediately.