Extreme temperatures and booming sounds can have
big impacts on our pets. With record-breaking heat forecast across much of the
nation and Independence Day celebrations on the horizon, Freshpet is helping
pet parents prepare for the official arrival of summer with tips that can help keep
their pets healthy and safe.
Heat Safety
Heat stroke can occur quickly in dogs. Without
the ability to sweat the same way humans do, it’s important for pet parents to
understand ways to cool their pets down when temperatures rise, and how to
avoid common mistakes to keep their pets safe.
“Just because we can manage the heat and
humidity, doesn’t mean our pets can,” according to Dr. Aziza Glass, Freshpet’s
expert veterinarian. “Our pets are vulnerable to temperatures over 80 degrees.
However, there are things that we can do to keep our pets safe and protected
from heat-related injuries, and some may come as a surprise.”
- Fill their
Water Bowls: Just like us, clean water is essential when managing the heat. Cool
water can help cool down your pet’s body temperature. Moisture-rich fresh food,
like Freshpet, can also help with hydration. - Limit time
outdoors: While outdoor activities are typically recommended for pets, their
inability to sweat the same way humans do can cause them to heat up quickly.
Limit walks to early morning or after the sun sets and stay indoors the rest of
the day. - Avoid
shaving your pet: While summer cuts for long-haired dogs are
okay, shaving your pet can expose their skin to harmful sun damage and cause
overheating more quickly.
Glass says pet parents should become educated on how to recognize heat stroke. Heavy panting, drooling, high body temperature, increased heart rate, and fatigue are signs of heat stroke in dogs. “If you believe your dog is having a heat stroke, bring them indoors immediately to help cool down,” she added. “A common mistake is putting the pet in a cold ice bath. That can actually shock their system and cause quick changes in their blood pressure. Instead, soak a towel in room temperature water and wipe your dog down to start the process of cooling them down. Afterwards, proceed immediately to your primary care veterinarian or closest emergency center.”
Fireworks on the Fourth
Booming sounds and crackling fireworks can send
some pets into sensory overdrive. According to Glass, with an elevated ability
to interpret sound frequencies audibly and physically, a dog’s sensitivity to
loud noises means Fourth of July celebrations can make for particularly anxious
events. Their reactions can send them under beds and jumping fences to flee
from the sounds, but there are ways to help make the holiday a bit less
stressful for our canine companions.
- Create a calm environment: Try to understand if your neighbors plan to launch fireworks. If so, create a space that helps your dog deal with the noise. A sound machine, lavender oil on their collar, and snuggles under blankets can help.
- Remain indoors: Avoid taking your dog outside if you’re planning to view fireworks or set off your own. A dog’s first reaction can be to flee from the noise and search for a safe spot, placing them in more danger.
- Stay close: Pets feel less anxious when they feel safe. Make sure you or someone they feel safe with is by their side until the fireworks are over, offering comfort, treats, and affection throughout the evening.
For more summer tips or information, visit Freshpet.com, and connect with Freshpet
on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About Freshpet
Freshpet’s mission is to improve the lives of dogs and cats through the power of fresh, real food. Freshpet recipes are blends of fresh meats, vegetables and fruits farmed locally and made at their Kitchens in Bethlehem, PA. Thoughtfully prepared, all food is made using natural ingredients, cooking in small batches at lower temperatures to preserve the natural goodness of the ingredients. Freshpet foods and treats are kept refrigerated from the moment they are made until they arrive at Freshpet fridges in your local market.
Freshpet is available in select mass, grocery (including online), natural food, club, and pet specialty retailers across the United States, Canada, and Europe. From the care taken to source ingredients and make each recipe, to the moment it reaches your home, Freshpet’s integrity, transparency, and social responsibility are the way they like to run their business.
Source: Freshpet
