Quick Tips to Safeguard Your Pets

While many residents continue to work from home in Phase 2 of Gov. Greg Abbott’s Strike Force to Open Texas, Travis County and other major employers are aiming to keep half or more of their workforces in permanent telework positions. Many Austinites also are trading summer trips for affordable staycations, so we can almost hear the cheers of house pets around the metro area. A pandemic culture means extra quality time with their favorite humans—and they couldn’t be more thrilled. 

There’s no doubt our pets are a comforting link to sanity in a COVID-19 world—so we owe them our best this summer. As we spend more time working and staycationing in our Austin-Round Rock homes, area vets are issuing safety reminders about protecting animals from seasonal hazards. These quick tips will keep your canine and feline companions healthy and happy this summer.

• Watch the thermometer. Austin is already in summer mode, with average temperatures hitting the mid-90s. If you leave your dog at home while you enjoy a day trip, fill multiple water bowls and set your smart thermostat no higher than 75 to 80 degrees. Cats and dogs do best with consistent temperatures, and programmable thermostat use also prolongs the lifespan of hardworking AC equipment.
• Manage the humidity. Summer heat plus Austin-area humidity makes it tough for dogs to pant—which is their only cool-down mechanism. If you leave the dogs at home for the day, set up large fans to cut the humidity and circulate the air. Smart thermostat installation is also a good way to keep home humidity in check since these devices generate temperature, humidity and energy use reports from your computer or smartphone.
• Pack wisely for day trips. Sure, your feline friends prefer to lounge in the AC while you embark on Austin-area adventures, but your dog may like to accompany you to the great outdoors. Before you leave for the day’s adventure, pack extra treats, dog kibble, several water bottles and a portable dog bowl. The American Kennel Club also recommends dog sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above. Sunscreen must be free of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and zinc oxide since these ingredients are toxic when ingested by pets. If sunscreen is a hassle, opt for a canine rash guard and sun goggles with built-in SPF. To further protect your furry friend, take breaks in the shade and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Cool Pets Are Happy Pets

The best way to keep dogs and cats safe this summer is to kick off the season with a vet checkup. Depending on what adventures await you, the veterinarian may recommend leptospirosis, feline leukemia, rabies, distemper and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccines. Make sure your pet also gets regular heartworm testing and ask your vet about heartworm prevention medication during your visit.

Cool Experts technicians love your house pets, and they stand ready to repair your AC fast—so the whole family stays comfortable. Ask our NATE-certified team about indoor air quality equipment, too, which is especially important if pet dander bothers occupants with allergies or asthma.

To request popular summer services like duct cleaning, AC duct replacement, smart thermostat installation or ductless AC installation, call 512.588.1452. To book service online, use our handy appointment app.