As summer approaches, animal experts unify in their concern for pet safety during the warmer months. To ensure a happy, healthy season for our furry friends, they have shared 14 must-know tips for creating a pet-friendly environment.

1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated: Ensure your pet has constant access to fresh water. Consider carrying a portable water dish during outings.

2. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car: Even with windows cracked, temperatures can rise quickly and lead to heatstroke or death.

3. Provide Access to Shade: Whether indoors or out, make sure your pet can retreat from direct sunlight.

4. Watch for Signs of Overheating: Excessive panting, increased heart rate, drooling, or weakness could signal heat stress.

5. Use Pet-Safe Sunscreen: Especially for pets with short fur or pale skin, apply sunscreen to prevent burns – but make sure it’s formulated for pets.

6. Beware of Hot Pavements: Touch the pavement; if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

7. Update Vaccinations and Preventatives: Summer can mean more exposure to other animals and pests that carry diseases.

8. Secure Windows and Balconies: Ensure screens are intact and balconies are safe to prevent falls when pets seek fresh air.

9. Avoid Heavy Exercise During Peak Heat: Exercise during cooler morning or evening hours to avoid heat exhaustion.

10. Watch Out for Hazardous Chemicals: Keep lawn treatments, insecticides, and antifreeze out of reach as they can be toxic if ingested.

11. Keep Away from Toxic Plants: Familiarize yourself with local flora that may be harmful to pets if consumed.

12. Manage Anxiety During Storms and Fireworks: Provide a safe, quiet space during loud events which may be frightening to pets.

13. Regular Grooming: This can help prevent overheating and allows you to check for ticks and fleas regularly.

14. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Heat can impact appetite; provide nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet your pet’s summer dietary needs.

Following these tips from animal experts will help safeguard your pets so everyone can enjoy the sunny days ahead!