Beat the Heat: Fun & Safe Outdoor Enrichment for Your Pets

Summer in South Central Kentucky means sunshine and outdoor fun, but with rising temperatures (and humidity!), it's crucial to keep your pets safe while they enjoy the great outdoors. Extreme heat can be dangerous for dogs and cats, so here are some tips for providing enriching outdoor experiences without risking their health:
For Dogs:

• Water Play: A kiddie pool filled with a few inches of water is a fantastic way for dogs to cool off and play. Toss in some floating toys or even a few ice cubes for extra fun. Supervised sprinkler time can also be a blast!
• Shady Adventures: Opt for walks or playtime in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Choose routes with plenty of shade from trees. Remember the "seven-second rule" and test yourself: if the pavement is too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws.
• Frozen Treats & Lick Mats: Fill a Kong or a puzzle toy with peanut butter or plain yogurt and freeze it. This provides a long-lasting, cooling activity. Lick mats frozen with pate dog food or pureed dog-safe fruit are also a hit.
• Sniffari in the Shade: Hide treats or favorite toys in shaded areas of your yard and let your dog use their nose to find them. This mental stimulation is just as enriching as physical exercise, especially when it's hot.

For Cats:

• "Catio" Comfort: If you have a catio or a secure, enclosed outdoor space, ensure it has plenty of shade and fresh water. Consider adding cat-safe plants to sniff and explore.
• Ice Cube Play: Toss a few ice cubes into a shallow bowl or a designated play area for your cat to bat around. Some cats love batting at and licking the cold cubes.
• Window Wonders: For indoor cats, open windows with secure screens to let them enjoy the sounds, smells, and breezes of summer safely. Place a cat tree or perch nearby.
• Leash Walks (for adventurous cats!): If your cat is leash-trained and enjoys walks, stick to shaded areas in your yard during cooler parts of the day. Be sure your cat is up-to-date on their worm, flea, and tick preventative before exploring the great outdoors. 

The BGWCHS Clinic Has Preventatives!

Always remember: Provide constant access to fresh water. Watch for signs of overheating like excessive panting, lethargy, drooling, or wobbly legs. If you suspect heatstroke, get indoors, and contact your vet immediately.
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Let's make sure our pets enjoy a safe, fun, and cool summer!