Pet Weather Report
Quick Links: Hot/Sunny I Rain I Thunderstorms I Hurricane/TropicalStorm
Hot/Sunny
Summertime in Florida can mean dangerously hot temperatures for everyone, including pets. Hot weather can sometimes spell danger for our furry companions, so to prevent your pet from life-threatening illness and injuries due to overheating, The City’s ACPS (Animal Care and Protective Services) team of personnel recommends following these simple precautions:
- Provide your pets with plenty of fresh, clean water. Pets can become dehydrated quickly.
- Know and be on the lookout for overheating symptoms (heavy panting, excessive drooling, increased/warm body temperature, etc.).
- NEVER leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle.
- Limit the time your pet is on hot asphalt/concrete, which can quickly injure or burn its paws.
- Keep your pets indoors during the hottest time of the day if possible.
Rain
When it’s raining cats and dogs, follow these tips from the City’s ACPS (Animal Care and Protective Services) team to keep the gray skies away:
- Pets can get bored quickly if they can't go out for a walk or to play. Plan ahead by finding ways to entertain them indoors.
- If they must go outside, keep them clear of large puddles, and thoroughly dry them, clean their paws, and check their coat for any debris, upon returning indoors.
- Not all pets love fashion, but you might want to consider pet water boots, particularly for dogs with furry paws, and pet raincoats, which are specifically designed to cover the animal’s body, keeping them warm and their fur dry. (Make sure your pet is comfortable before using!)
Thunderstorms
Often, the loud sounds of thunder may cause pets to become frightened or disoriented, leading them to panic and even escape from their homes. Below are a few tips from the City’s ACPS ( Animal Care and Protective Services) team that can keep pets safe during a storm:
- Keep your pets secured INSIDE your home.
- Provide a safe spot from loud noises, such as a guest bathroom or a crate in a quiet part of the house.
- Be prepared in the event that your pet does escape by ensuring they are properly identified/microchipped.
- Provide plenty of enrichment to keep their brains busy and calm during the storm.
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
In the event of a weather emergency, pets need to be JaxReady too! Emergencies come in many forms, sometimes requiring a brief absence from your home or routine or even an evacuation. The City’s ACPS (Animal Care and Protective Services) team suggests the following steps to prepare and keep your pets safe:
- Pack pet emergency supplies and traveling kits (include extra food and water, litter, medication, vaccination records, photos, etc.).
- Be sure your pet is properly identified/microchipped and emergency contact information is updated.
- Identify a safe haven where pets are welcome in the event of an evacuation.
- Research pet-friendly shelter locations and requirements in advance.