Keeping Your Home & Pets Healthy & Happy This Summer
As summer approaches, it’s important to prepare your home and pets for the warmer weather. Here are some tips to ensure both your living space and furry friends stay healthy during the summer months:
1. Maintain a Cool Environment:
Keep your home cool to prevent overheating, especially for pets with thick fur. Use air conditioning, fans, or keep the blinds closed during the hottest part of the day. Consider a programmable thermostat to manage indoor temperatures efficiently.
2. Stay Hydrated:
Just like humans, pets need plenty of water to stay hydrated in the heat. Ensure your pets have access to fresh water at all times. You might also want to place multiple water bowls around the house.
3. Prevent Parasites:
Summer is prime time for fleas, ticks, and heartworms. Make sure your pets are up-to-date on their preventative treatments. Regularly check your pets for ticks after they’ve been outside.
4. Safe Outdoor Time:
Limit your pets’ outdoor activities during extreme heat and avoid the midday sun. Early morning or evening walks are best. Remember that hot pavement can burn your pet’s paws, so choose grassy areas when possible.
5. Grooming:
Regular grooming helps prevent summer skin problems and can keep your pets cooler. However, don’t shave your pet’s fur—the layers of dogs’ and cats’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn.
6. Secure Your Home:
Ensure that window screens are secure to prevent pets from falling out of open windows. Keep toxic chemicals, such as antifreeze and insecticides, out of reach.
7. Healthy Diet:
Maintain a balanced diet for your pets. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can make it harder for them to stay cool.
8. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke:
Know the signs of heatstroke in pets, which include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and a body temperature above 104°F. If you suspect heatstroke, move your pet to a cooler area and contact your vet immediately.
9. Keep Your Home Clean:
A clean home is a healthier home. Vacuum regularly to control pet hair and dander, and wash your pet’s bedding frequently.
10. Create a Safe Haven:
Provide a quiet, well-ventilated space where your pet can retreat from the heat and noise, especially during summer thunderstorms or Fourth of July fireworks.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a fun and healthy summer with your pets while keeping your home comfortable and safe. Remember, if you’re uncomfortable in the heat, your pets likely are too, so take the necessary precautions to ensure everyone stays cool and content.
Contact Us
Swinson Air Conditioning is your independently owned American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning Dealer, serving the Loxley and Eastern Shore area. We are a locally owned and operated Customer Care Dealer, and would love to become your HVAC contractor. Feel free to contact us via email or give us a call at 251-964-9009 for any of your HVAC needs.
