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Summers are getting hotter and hotter, thanks to our contributions to fossil fuel pollution. The 2023 summer was the hottest on record, and experts say it's only going to get hotter: the hot weather is here to stay. But it's not only hot for us humans. Our pets can feel the sizzling heat, too.

That's why we, as owners, need to know how to take care of our furry best friends the right way. To know more, we had a chat with Tricia Montgomery, the co-host of the Pets Are Family podcast and pet industry expert. She gave us tips about traveling with pets during summer, told us how to fight unwanted parasites, and shared some grooming advice.

"Summer is officially here," Montgomery points out, "and we bet you're itching to hit the road with your furry (or feathered, or scaly) friends." But she tells us to hold our horses; there are a few things owners should consider before packing up their Whiskers or Fido. 

A pet needs to be able to regulate their temperature properly, so hydration is key. "Just like you wouldn't leave your house without your trusty water bottle, make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water. Dehydration can sneak up on them quickly," Montgomery warns.

It's not only humans who need a pit stop on a long trip. Pets need to relieve themselves, too! "If you're on a long drive, schedule regular breaks for potty time, stretching legs, and sniffing new scents," Tricia recommends. "And maybe a quick selfie with a roadside attraction!" Her last tip is about not forgetting to keep your pet's ID up to date. "Losing a pet is heartbreaking, but a quick return is possible if they're easily identified." 

Fluffy furs are what we love our four-legged friends for, but they can also become the breeding ground for various parasites during warm months. "Summer—the season of sun, fun, and... pesky parasites," Tricia agrees.

Fleas and ticks especially love warm weather. "Use flea and tick preventatives, whether it's a collar, topical treatment, or oral medication," she recommends. "And give your pet a good brush-down after outdoor adventures."

Pesky mosquitoes can annoy pets, too. My dog tries to eat them when they start buzzing around his ears, but that's hardly an efficient strategy. "They can transmit heartworm," Tricia points out. "Make sure your pet is on a vet-recommended heartworm preventive."

Montgomery also cautions pet owners to be aware of mites and lice. "These critters can cause skin issues and general discomfort. Regular grooming and checking your pet's fur can keep them at bay."

"Fun fact: even zoo animals get these nasties! Zookeepers use special treatments and routines to keep their exotic charges parasite-free. Imagine giving a lion a flea bath!"

When the temperature reaches over 85° Fahrenheit, I'm putting my hair in a bun. Otherwise, it's like the heat doubles! Pets who have long fur also struggle with this issue. "Grooming in the summer is like getting ready for a beach day—more about comfort and less about fashion," Tricia says.

When it comes to coat care, the first step to a pet being comfortable during hot days is regular brushing. "[It] helps remove loose fur and prevent[s] matting, which can trap heat. Think of it as giving your pet a mini spa day," Montgomery explains.

If you're considering shaving your pet so they don't feel as hot, maybe don't. "While it might seem like a good idea to shave your pet to keep them cool, fur actually provides some protection against the sun," Tricia says. "Instead, opt for a trim to manage length without fully exposing their skin."

The last two things to consider are to bathe your pet more frequently and up their sun protection game a little bit. "More frequent baths can help keep your pet cool and clean, especially if they love rolling around in the grass—and who doesn't?"

As for sun protection, keep in mind that pets can get sunburned, too, even more so for those who have light-colored fur or exposed skin. "Use pet-safe sunscreen on vulnerable areas like noses and [the] tips of ears. And why not a stylish pet hat? Instagram, here we come!" Tricia quips.

"Remember, even zoo animals have special grooming routines in the summer," she says. "Ever seen a bear getting a pedicure? It's claw-some!"