Tips On Keeping Pets Safe As Temperatures Rise

It's getting to be that time of year in the Berkshires. Before you know it, temperatures will be in the upper 80's and 90's. As we do our best to stay cool and hydrated, it's also important to make sure our pets are safe.

The ASPCA has issued a number of steps we should take in order to keep pets safe for the summertime.

1. Visit the vet for a spring or early-summer checkup

2. Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh, clean water

3. Animals with flat faces, like Pugs and Persian cats, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. Always keep them cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible

4. Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle

5. Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool—not all dogs are good swimmers

6. Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed—Open unscreened windows pose a real danger to pets, who often fall out of them

7. Feel free to trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog

8. Don’t let your dog linger on hot asphalt

9. Remember that food and drink commonly found at barbeques can be poisonous to pets

10. Never use fireworks around pets

Now, these are just the basics. You can find out more information and get more in-depth explanations by visiting the ASPCA's website. Let's be safe this summer and be sure to keep our pets safe too.