It’s time to discuss keeping your dogs and cats cool and healthy. Summer brings plenty of outdoor fun. However, the blazing Iowa heat creates hidden dangers for your pets. Dogs and cats do not sweat like humans. They struggle to cool down when temperatures spike. You must take extra steps to protect your furry friends from heatstroke and rapid dehydration. Keep your companions safe and comfortable by making simple adjustments to your routine.

Follow these easy tips for keeping your dogs and cats cool and healthy:

• Provide fresh water: Keep multiple bowls of clean, cold water indoors and outdoors. Drop a few ice cubes in their dish on extra hot afternoons to encourage drinking.
• Test the pavement: Hot asphalt burns sensitive paw pads quickly. Press your hand against the road. If the ground feels too hot for your skin, it is too hot for your dog.
• Adjust walk times: Exercise your dog early in the morning or late in the evening. Skip long walks when the midday sun beats down the hardest.
• Never use parked cars: A parked vehicle turns into a dangerous oven in minutes. Cracking the windows fails to cool the interior. Leave your pets safely at home while running errands.
• Watch for heat stress: Heavy panting, excessive drooling, and sudden lethargy are massive warning signs. Move an overheated pet indoors immediately and call your local veterinarian.

When you need premium products to keep your pets healthy this summer, visit H&S Feed and Country Store. We stock a massive selection of high-quality dog and cat food to fuel their daily adventures. You can also find delicious USA-made pet treats, durable toys, and essential grooming supplies at our main Oskaloosa location. Our knowledgeable staff understands exactly what your animals need to stay happy and active. Stop by H&S Feed today, and let our friendly team help you build the perfect summer care routine for your furry family members.