How Long Is Too Long For Pets To Be Outside in Summer?

Your pets enjoy spending more time outdoors in the summer. There’s no snow or wind to contend with, and there are plenty of interesting new smells to enjoy. But with summer comes a different set of conditions that can be hazardous to your pet. Even if you’re with your pets outside, things like high humidity, intense sun and a lack of water can become dangerous for your pets. Here are some things to watch out for, and how to prevent harm from coming to your pets in summer.

High Humidity

You may be aware of the high temperatures in your region, but you also need to watch for high humidity days. Just as seniors and those with respiratory issues can have trouble breathing on days with high humidity, so can your pets.

On high humidity days (anything over 60%), try to keep your pets indoors as much as possible. When they do go out, don’t run your dog on a leash or push them to exercise in the yard. Consider allowing your pets to stay inside on such a day, especially if you typically leave them outside while you are at work.

Intense Sun

In summer, the sun sits higher in the sky than the rest of the year. Exposure to intense sun can cause heat sickness and heat stroke in your pet just as it can with you. If heat exhaustion does occur, water may not be enough to get your pet back to normal. The remedy is to get into the shade or a chilled environment as soon as possible.

On hot summer days, make sure your pets have access to a cool, shady environment where they can get out of the sun. Consider positioning the doghouse under a shady tree, or leaving the garage door open a little while you’re at work. If the temperatures are really predicted to soar, keep your pet indoors in the air conditioning. If you don’t have air conditioning in your house, let your pets stay inside the house with a breeze blowing via an open window or a box fan.

Lack of Water

On hot days, a shallow bowl of water can evaporate quickly, leaving your pets lacking in hydration, and exposed to the outdoor elements.

To make sure your pets have plenty of water outside in your absence, invest in a weighted bucket or very deep water bowl that won’t tip over. Check it daily, and keep it accessible, and filled with clean water for your pet. When you’re home with your pet on hot days, you can throw a few ice chips in the water to cool your pet from the inside out.

Remember, your pets are prone to the same problems with heat that humans have. If you feel it’s time for you to go inside, it’s probably time for your pets to go indoors, too.