Summer is the season of fun, and its no exception for your pets! Whether it’s taking them out to frolic in the sun or bringing your pet with you on vacation, its very important to keep your best friend’s safety in mind. Read below for a few tips to keep in mind.

1- Never Leave A Pet In A Car

You’d never leave a baby or toddler alone in a car on a hot summer day, so why would you do the same to your pet? Because animals are smaller and don’t really sweat the same way people do,  it doesn’t take much for them to suffer heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  Also, leaving your pet inside a hot car is considered illegal in many states.

2- Protect Your Pet

Its not always the best idea to let your pet cat outside, but many people do anyway.  So if you must let Fluffy out, take caution and make sure your cat gets a microchip tag.  Your vet can easily implant a microchip tag in your cat’s skin.  If your pet gets lost and winds up in an animal shelter, the people at the shelter can scan your pet for identification information and contact you so you can pick up your pet.  That said, microchip identification shouldn’t be your only source, make sure you get a classic collar with ID tag.

3- Keeping Your Pet Safe During A Vacation

Once you’ve decided on your summer vacation plans, its time to think about your pet. If you have a dog, you’ve got a choice to bring them or leave them, but if you’ve got a cat, your best bet is to leave them home.  If you’ve decided to bring your pet on vacation, make sure you book a pet friendly hotel, and don’t forget to bring the essentials like pet medications and the vet’s emergency number.  If you’re leaving your pet at home, make sure you hire a trustworthy pet sitter or keep your pet in a local kennel. Check to see if your veterinary office has one or could recommend a trustworthy company.