Taking Care of Your Pets in Extreme Weather and Emergencies

Summer is here once again for those of us in the northern hemisphere. After a long winter and wet spring, many of us are looking forward to the long days, sunshine, and spending time outside with friends and family. And … with our favorite furry friends!

There are so many activities we can do with our pets outdoors during the summer, and it’s a great way to spend time together while staying active and healthy.

But summer weather can sometimes be dangerous -- for humans and pets. When your pets are part of your family, it’s important to know how to keep them safe, too. Here are some of our best tips for taking care of your pets during extreme weather and emergencies.

EXTREME HEAT

Many places in the U.S. can reach temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit -- or higher -- during the summer months. Most of us probably prefer to do nothing more than lounge inside with the air conditioning blasting.

But most of us know that our dogs look forward to their outdoor walks and time to explore the neighborhood or favorite park. However, just like you’re not comfortable in the heat, they won’t be either.

Think about how hot the pavement can get during the day; now, imagine your dog’s paws walking on that hot surface. They can be seriously burned. We recommend using some of our 3-in-1 paw ointment as a protective barrier if you think your pet’s paws are at risk of being burned on their walk.

Otherwise, trying to take walks early in the morning or late in the evening, when everything is cooler, can help a lot. Or, if you have a grassy yard they can walk in, their paws will be more protected than on pavement. And after any activity, make sure your pet has plenty of cool water.

And of course, we must mention this important summer safety tip: Never leave your pet alone in the car. Even if it’s running with the air conditioning on -- that could put them at risk in a different way.

Thunderstorms and Tornadoes

In the Midwest, like where we at Gou Gou Pets are based in Kansas, thunderstorms and tornadoes are a dangerous part of the summer, though fluctuating weather means they can happen year-round.

For household pets, the steps for tornado or severe storm safety are the same as they are for humans: get to a basement or ground-level location, as close to the inside of the house as possible, and stay away from windows. As you and your family move to a secure location, grab your pets, some food and water, and take them with you. Keep your pets in their carriers or crates if possible.

But for outdoor pets such as horses, the safety steps for tornadoes are much different.

According to Horse Illustrated magazine, the safest place for your horses depends on the space you have available for them. If you have a large pasture, allowing them to move freely in the pasture can help them move out of the storm’s path on their own. But if you don’t have a large pasture, keeping them sheltered in the barn may be the best choice.

Review the options you have available and be sure to monitor the weather forecasts in your area to help you prepare with enough time.

Hurricanes

If you’re closer to the coast, hurricanes may be the more common type of severe weather threat you’ll need to be prepared for.

Some of the steps are similar to that of a tornado: bring your small pets inside, put them in their carrier, and shelter in place. And if you have to evacuate -- whether before or after the storm -- be sure to bring them with you in their carriers.

You can be extra prepared by knowing ahead of time which evacuation shelters allow pets. In the past, there have been times when people were turned away from these evacuation shelters for bringing their pets.

For horses, one important tip from Horse Authority is to ensure they aren’t tied or locked up, because they won’t stand a chance to escape or survive on their own. And keep in mind, that if you have to evacuate, make sure you have a plan for your horses or somewhere for them to go while you’re away.

Try Holistic Pet Care from Gou Gou Pets

At Gou Gou Pets, our aim is to promote healthy lives with a sense of balance for years of happiness for your pet. We offer a line of natural pet products that incorporate the best of Eastern and Western methodologies.

We offer a traditional and holistic-infused grooming line, joint/pain management spray and ointments, trauma, wound, and skin care and antioxidant therapy. All made in the USA. Our products are naturally based, gentle, and contain high quality Chinese herbs, essential oils, and aromatic therapy ingredients.

Find out more about our products and feel free to contact us with any questions.