From Cinema Veterinary Centre in Santa Clarita, CA
Santa Clarita summers can bring plenty of sunshine—and plenty of. At the Cinema Veterinary Centre, we want your pets to enjoy the season safely. Whether your companion is furry, feathered, or scaled, a few smart precautions can make all the difference.
From dogs and cats to rabbits, reptiles, and birds, here are practical summer safety tips tailored to the pets we care for.
Keeping Dogs Cool in the Summer
- Walk during the early morning or late evening to avoid scorching pavement.
- Carry water and offer frequent breaks on outings; keep fresh water available at home.
- Provide shade and use cooling options like frozen treats, splash pads, or cooling mats.
Summer Comfort for Cats
- Create cozy window perches with shade and airflow.
- Offer safe outdoor time in a secure catio or screened porch. If you are looking create a catio or fenced in yard for your pet, The Purrfect Fence offers some great solutions.
- Puzzle feeders, ice cubes in water bowls, and cooling pads can keep them entertained and refreshed.
- Many cats prefer drinking from running water—fountains can encourage better hydration.
Exotic Pets Need Special Attention
- Keep enclosures away from direct sunlight and ensure good airflow.
- Use fans, cooling tiles, or frozen water bottles wrapped in towels for small mammals like rabbits or guinea pigs.
- Provide shaded perches for birds and maintain thermal gradients for reptiles—excessive heat can be just as dangerous as cold.
- Monitor humidity levels, especially for amphibians and desert-dwelling reptiles.
NEVER leave any pet in a parked car. Even a few minutes can lead to life-threatening heatstroke—temperatures can rise 20°F in just 10 minutes. The AVMA warns temperature inside your vehicle can rise about 20 degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 minutes,
Hydration Is Essential for All Pets
Water is your pet’s best friend during summer. Dogs and cats need clean, cool water available indoors and outside. Change bowls frequently to prevent bacteria growth and consider using ceramic or stainless-steel bowls.
Exotic pets may need misting, drip systems, or species-specific drinking methods. For example, many rabbits prefer shallow ceramic bowls over water bottles for more natural hydration.
Know the Signs of Heat Stress
Act fast if you see any of these signs:
- Heavy panting or drooling
- Lethargy or confusion
- Trouble breathing or collapsing
These are medical emergencies, especially for small or exotic animals. Call Cinema Veterinary Centre immediately if your pet shows any of these symptoms.
Indoor Summer Safety
If you use air conditioning, be mindful of vents—especially for birds, who are sensitive to drafts. Without AC, create cross-ventilation using fans and secure screen windows. Keep terrariums and aquariums well-regulated with accurate heat sources and thermometers.
Block direct sun during peak hours by closing curtains to keep indoor temperatures cooler.
Sun Protection for Sensitive Pets
Pets with thin fur, white coats, or exposed skin can get sunburned. Use pet-safe sunscreen on vulnerable areas such as ears and noses. Never use sunscreen meant for humans.
For exotic pets, ensure cages and aquariums stay shaded and out of direct sunlight. Shade cloths or UV-blocking films can help prevent harmful sun exposure.
Fun—and Safe—Summer Activities
Make the most of summer with creative, pet-friendly fun:
- Set up shaded backyard play zones.
- Offer frozen treat toys with pet-safe broth or fruit.
- Create indoor obstacle courses for stimulation and exercise.
- Add new textures or toys to exotic pet enclosures for mental enrichment.
For cats, elevated perches or window hammocks offer safe sunbathing spots. For dogs, early morning hikes or visits to shaded dog parks provide safe outdoor time.
Planning a Trip?
Traveling with pets this summer? Be prepared:
- Use secure, well-ventilated carriers.
- Pack water, food, and favorite toys or bedding.
- If boarding, verify that the facility accommodates exotic pets.
- Schedule a pre-travel exam at Cinema Veterinary Centre for a clean bill of health.
Santa Clarita’s Partner in Pet Wellness—All Summer Long
At Cinema Veterinary Centre, we know every pet could star in their own summer blockbuster. Whether you share your home with a brave-hearted hound, a clever, mischievous cat, a sly snake with a flair for the dramatic, or a diva parrot who insists on stealing every scene, our team is here to help them stay safe and healthy all season long. As a certified Fear Free Veterinary Clinic, we are also committed to making every visit as stress-free and comfortable as possible—for pets and their people.
Call us today to schedule your pet’s summer check-up. We will provide personalized advice for keeping your furry, feathered, or scaly friend healthy, hydrated, and happy all season long.