Preparing your pet for summer: Hydration and sun protection tips

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with our pets, but it also brings certain challenges. As temperatures rise, it's crucial to ensure our furry friends are well hydrated and protected from the sun. Here are some essential tips to keep your pet happy and healthy during the summer, which is important because these are the hottest months of the year.

Adequate hydration

To maintain proper hydration of your pet in summer, we suggest

1. Constant access to fresh water: Make sure your pet always has access to clean, fresh water. Change the water several times a day and consider placing multiple containers in different areas of the house and garden.

2. Portable bowls: If you plan on leaving home, bring a portable bowl and water bottle to keep your pet hydrated during walks or car rides.

3. Wet Food: Including wet food in your pet's diet can help increase their fluid intake. Consult your veterinarian to adjust their diet appropriately. At Dibaq, we offer an interesting variety of wet dog foods and wet cat foods .

4. Cool baths: If your pet doesn't like getting wet, don't force it, but if he enjoys a good bath, take the opportunity to cool him off with hoses or water areas where he can cool off outside too.

Sun protection

Do you know how to protect your dog or cat from the sun? Here are some ideas:

1. Shade and Shelter: Provide shaded areas where your pet can rest, whether indoors or outdoors. Umbrellas, awnings, and kennels can offer effective shelter from the sun.

2. Pet Sunscreen: Some pets, especially those with light skin or short fur, may be susceptible to sunburn. Use pet-specific sunscreens on exposed areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Never use human sunscreen, as it may contain ingredients that are toxic to animals.

3. Protective Clothing: Consider dressing your pet in lightweight, breathable clothing designed to protect against UV rays. Special pet shirts and capes are available that can help prevent sunburn.

4. Walking Times: Avoid walking your pet during peak sunlight hours (10 am to 4 pm ). Opt for walks in the early morning or at dusk when temperatures are lower and the sun is less intense.

Other important tips

Walking Surface: Hot pavement can burn your pet's paws. Before you go outside, check the ground temperature with the palm of your hand. If it's too hot for you, it will be too hot for your pet. Consider wearing protective paw boots.

Regular Baths: Bathing your pet regularly can help keep them cool. Use warm water and pet shampoo, and be sure to dry them thoroughly to avoid skin irritation.

Frequent brushing: Regular brushing helps remove dead hair and improve air circulation around your pet's skin, which can help keep them cool.

Constant vigilance: Pay attention to signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, and collapse. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heat stroke, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Summer can be a time of fun and outdoor adventure for you and your pet, as long as you take the necessary precautions to keep them hydrated and protected from the sun. Following these tips will ensure your pet has a safe and enjoyable summer.

Get your furry friend ready for the heat and enjoy everything summer has to offer together!