High temperatures, sun and humidity can cause stress, dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health issues for pets, livestock and wildlife.
Fort Worth Animal Care & Control (FWACC) has a ton of top tips to help keep all of our furry friends safe and cool during the brutal summer months ahead.
For Pets (Cats, Dogs, etc.)
Provide ample water
- Always ensure pets have access to fresh, cool water. Use multiple water bowls if necessary.
- Add ice cubes to their water to keep it cool longer.
Offer shade and shelter
- Provide shaded areas where pets can escape the sun.
- Use pet-safe sunblock on exposed skin (like the nose and ears) for breeds susceptible to sunburn.
Avoid overheating
- Walk pets early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
- Avoid hot pavements, which can burn their paws. If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
- Never leave pets in a parked car, even with windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.