How to Enjoy a Safe Summer with Your Pets, Pt. 1

Summertime is finally here! We are experiencing higher temperatures, which means you and your pet can enjoy more outdoor activities this time of year! However, there are some precautions that you should keep in mind to keep your pet safe.

Paw Pad Burns

Don’t make the mistake of going outside just because the weather seems nice. Temperatures that seem okay for humans can cause serious harm to pets.

How to Check

Take the time to perform these two quick tests to see if it's a good day to walk your dog.

■ Seven-second test: Place your back of the hand on the ground for 7 seconds. If you can’t endure the heat for seven seconds, neither can your pet. This technique was created and approved by veterinarians.

■ Temperature: If the outdoor temperature is 77 °F, the temperature of the pavement increases to 125 °F. At this temperature, skin problems occur just after a minute of contact. If the temperature of the pavement rises to 128 °F, you can even cook in under 5 minutes! Therefore, it's ideal to go on a walk with your pet in the early morning or at night. If it’s necessary to go on a walk during the day, walk in natural grass and avoid the pavement.

First Aid: Similar treatment to humans

Take your pet to the vet asap. Below is the degree of burns. If the symptoms below are shown, it is best to take your pet immediately to the vet.

If you are unable to take your pet to the vet, do the following :

■ Reduce the temperature of the paw pad: Place the paw pad in running water. However, the water shouldn’t be ice-cold.

■ Protect the paw pad: Swathe the area or put on clean socks.

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References

Pet careSummer