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Create a Safe Outdoor Area for your Pets

Writer's picture: CompanionCompanion

Summer in the PNW can bring a variety of weather, but the Sun does shine and it does get hot. Its important to ensure our pets are safe and cool during the hottest part of the summer.


Here are some great ideas to create a pet area in your backyard, to keep pets cool and safe this season.


Ensure a covered space:

1 Creating an area with natural shade using trees and shrubs is ideal. Clear a space for your pets to lie down and relax comfortably. Be sure this area is shady all day long!


2 Use a smaller sun shade to hang low, and angle just right to create or ensure a shady spot for Fido. You can get them at home improvement stores for under $25 in the smaller sizes. You can also use them to cover existing dog runs, etc.


3 A dog house that is out of direct sun, and large enough for airflow is also a great idea. Ensure it is off of the ground, and on a cool surface such as grass or dirt. Placing it on cement will hurt not help as it increases the temperature inside.


Add a Soft Place to Rest:

Add an outdoor, waterproof dog bed to any outdoor space for comfort and safety. Wash it at least once a week to prevent bugs and bacteria, molds, etc. from creeping in.


Add a Water Bowl:

Always have a large, full water bowl in the space to help keep Fluffy hydrated and cool. Refill daily so the water stays fresh and bug free.


Add a Doggy Door:

If this is an option for you, adding a dog door to the back of your home allows 24/7 access to the indoors during hot weather. Many come with guards so you can close it so pets cannot go in and out, such as at night time, or in extreme weather.






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Craig Ritchie, DVM

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