Keeping Your Pets Safe and Cool This Summer

When the sun comes out, chances are both you and your pet want to be outdoors enjoying the fresh air. Don't forget that pets are closer to the hot ground and often bear heat more quietly than people. Make the most out of this summer while ensuring your pets stay cool and safe no matter what the weather with these 10 summer must-haves.

1. Water
Everyone needs water to ensure protection from dehydration. Your pet is no exception. For cats and small pets like rabbits, a filter system with cooling might be just the thing to add a touch of peace to their day. If you take your pets outdoors for adventures of any kind, don't forget to bring along a water bottle and water dish for on-the-go refreshment. Collapsible dishes are perfect for saving space on hikes or long days out.

2. Cooling Beds
If you can't stand the heat, your pet is probably suffering too. Why not give them a cooling pad or gel bed to help them relax and protect them from the heat that radiates on all sides? Many pet beds can be adjusted to cooling pads by simply adding a frozen towel over the surface or placing a frozen jell pack under the lining.

3. Hose Attachments
Not all pets like playing in the water, but even rodents and cats might enjoy the misters that can be attached to small fans on hot days. Many dogs enjoy water sprinklers and a chance to wade in a little pool, which is a great option if you want to keep an eye on your budget. For a more reliable stream of water, try installing a hose fixture to your sprinkler to let a little water out throughout the day so your pet can take a quick shower whenever needed.

4. Sun Protection Garments
If your pet is looking a little overheated, you can feel the inside of their ears to see if they are flushed or red. To prevent them from getting too hot, pop on a little sun protection. Try a pet-sized sun hat to keep harsh rays out of your pet's eyes and to protect their sensitive ears from sunburn. Don't forget to invest in breathable mesh to make harnesses and other garments more comfortable on hot days.

5. Sunscreen
Experts recommend that people apply sunscreen every 2 hours when faced with intense sunlight. Your pets probably have fur that protects them from the most intense UV rays, but don't forget to check around their eyes and noses as well as less covered areas like tummies and ears to make sure the sun isn't causing redness and damage to your pet. If this is the case, some gentle pet-friendly ointment can clear up a lot of discomfort, and specially made pet sunscreen can keep your pet safe in the future.

6. Sunglasses
When you take your dog on a Sunday drive, chances are pretty good that an adorable face will be poking out the window to catch as many smells as possible. Protect your pet's eyes from the hazards of air currents as well as potent UV rays with goggles or sunglasses.

7. Paw Protection
A good rule is that if you can't stand to touch hot pavement for more than 10 seconds, you shouldn't force your pets to walk barefoot on that surface. In many cases, the temperature near the ground will be several degrees hotter than in the breezy air where humans breathe, so make sure to test with your bare hand before taking a long walk. On days when it's hot enough to fry an egg on the sidewalk, booties can keep your pet from experiencing burned paws, but on extremely hot days, it might be smarter to play on the grass or hang out in the shade instead.

8. Cooling Garments
Pet care technology has advanced to bring you cooling garments such as bandannas, collars and suits that include freezable jell or other components to help your pet chill out. They might work simply to block the sun or the soothing interior can be chilled for just the right touch of relaxation to allow your pet to enjoy the outdoors. Try a temperature-regulating collar or simply chill a bandanna and tie it around your pet for a cost-efficient way to help your pet cool off quickly.

9. Kennel Fans
If your pet is staying outdoors, a fan in their kennel or hutch can make a big difference. Keep the fresh air moving and make sure your pet doesn't overheat with a battery or even solar-powered fan that can stay attached to the side of their enclosure. Don't forget to make sure your pet has access to shade and water as well if it is left outdoors for any length of time.

10. Ice Toys
Many pets love playing with ice cubes. Unfortunately, mere cubes often shatter or melt too quickly to provide much amusement or cooling effect, but you can freeze water inside a rubber or silicon toy to provide more lasting enjoyment for your pet. Some toys are designed to hold ice as well as a treat, but any durable pet toy with a waterproof section can be used for this fun and cooling diversion.

Summer means fun days outdoors, whether playing in water or just relaxing in the hammock. Your pet looks forward to enjoying fine weather as much as you do, but it's your responsibility to keep them safe. Take some time to test to make sure your pet isn't overheating so both of you can have the best summer ever.