Summer in Atlanta is a time for vibrant gatherings—July 4th parties, poolside fun, backyard BBQs, and more. While these events are a blast for people, they can be stressful or even dangerous for pets if precautions aren’t taken. Ensuring your furry pals stay safe and comfortable during these celebrations is essential for a happy summer for everyone. Here are my top tips for keeping pets safe while hosting summer gatherings in Atlanta.
Prevent Heat Stroke
Atlanta’s summer heat can quickly become overwhelming for pets, especially dogs. To avoid heat stroke, provide frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and always have fresh, cool water available. Plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, early morning or late evening, to protect pets from the hottest temperatures and scorching pavement that can burn their paws.
Consider whipping up cooling treats, including frozen Kongs or bone broth ice cubes, which can help keep pets refreshed. If you notice signs of overheating, such as panting, drooling, or lethargy, move your pet to a cool space immediately and offer water. Contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.
Put Your Pet Away
Not all pets enjoy crowds, strangers, or loud noises typical of summer gatherings. If your pet would be better off left out of the festivities, set up a quiet, secure area away from the party where pets can stay or go to if they feel overwhelmed. This safe space should be comfortable, shaded, and stocked with water and familiar toys.
Manage Food and Trash
Summer BBQs and parties often involve foods and items hazardous to pets. Keep an eye on what your pets are eating, as many common party foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and foods containing xylitol are toxic to dogs and cats.
Additionally, use covered trash cans to prevent pets from accessing skewers, cooked bones, or discarded food that could cause choking, injuries, digestive issues, or intestinal obstruction. Educate guests to avoid feeding pets human food and to be cautious with their drinks and snacks.
Prevent Pet Loss
With guests coming and going, doors, windows, and gates can be left open accidentally, increasing the risk of pets escaping and getting lost. Make sure all entry points are securely closed and locked during your event. Consider microchipping your pets and ensure their ID tags are up to date to improve the chances of recovery if they do get lost.
Keeping Pets Safe While Hosting Summer Gatherings in Atlanta
In addition to the above precautions, consider the following layers of protection to ensure you, your guests, your pets, and your community enjoy the summer to the fullest!
- Check our last week’s blog to keep pests at bay
- Avoid exposing pets to fireworks, which can frighten them and cause panic escapes
- Keep pets away from overgrown bushes or areas where snakes might hide during summer
- Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed skin for pets with light-colored or thin coats
- Never leave pets unattended in cars, even with windows cracked, as temperatures rise dangerously fast; leave your pets at home when running errands
- For pets that dislike water or swimming, never force them into pools; supervise closely if they do enjoy swimming and boating
- Always supervise interactions between your pets and strangers, as unfamiliar people can inadvertently cause stress, encourage escape attempts, or cause defensive bites and scratches
By taking these thoughtful precautions, you can enjoy your Atlanta summer gatherings knowing your pets are safe, cool, and comfortable. With a little planning, your furry friends will be part of the fun—not the stress—this season.
Atlanta’s Best Pet Care
Buckhead Pet Pals offers dog walking, dog and cat sitting, as well as care for other pet species. We proudly serve Atlanta, Buckhead, Sandy Spring, Marietta, and Dunwoody.
Learn more about our onboarding process and scheduling software/app here. We welcome your questions and comments via phone at 404-303-0312 or email at office@buckheadpetpals.com. Existing clients, please request pet care services here.
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