Longer days, warmer temps, and backyard barbecues—summer is here in Oakdale, MN! But as much as we humans enjoy the season, our pets rely on us to help them navigate the heat and stay comfortable. Whether you share your home with a playful pup, a curious cat, or a scaled or feathered friend, a thoughtful summer routine can make a world of difference in their well-being.
Just like people, pets have their own summer needs depending on their species, age, and lifestyle. That’s why we’re sharing easy, veterinarian-approved tips to help you create a summer schedule your furry, feathered, or scaly companion will love.
Rise and Shine: Start Mornings With Energy (and Shade)
In the summer, mornings are your best friend. The heat hasn’t peaked yet, the air is fresher, and your pet has stored up plenty of energy overnight.
- For dogs: Schedule daily walks early in the morning—before 10AM is ideal. Choose shaded trails and grassy areas to protect paws from hot pavement. Don’t forget to bring water and allow breaks for sniffing and exploration. This isn’t just physical exercise—it’s mental stimulation too.
- For cats: Open safe windows with screens so your feline friend can enjoy the breeze and birdwatching. You can also initiate a brief play session using interactive toys to encourage activity before it gets too warm.
- For exotic pets: Maintain a stable environment indoors. Reptiles, birds, and small mammals still benefit from regular light exposure, so opening blinds to let in natural light (not direct sun) can support their circadian rhythm.
Hot Tip: Pets with light-colored fur or pink noses may be prone to sunburn. Don’t hesitate to ask your Oakdale vet about pet-safe sunscreen options or shop directly from our online pharmacy.
Midday Breaks: Keep Cool and Stimulated Indoors
From noon to 4PM, temperatures are at their highest. Avoid outdoor activities during these hours, especially for breeds prone to heatstroke (like Bulldogs, Pugs, or flat-faced cats). Instead, build a midday routine around mental stimulation and cool-downs.
Try these activities:
- Puzzle feeders for food-motivated pets
- Frozen treats with pet-safe fruits or kibble
- DIY “snuffle boxes” using cardboard and paper for small mammals
- Chilled ceramic tiles in reptile enclosures for lounging
Not only do these activities help beat boredom, but they also keep your pet from exerting themselves in dangerous heat. If you notice panting, excessive salivation, lethargy, or glassy eyes, it’s time to contact your veterinarian in Oakdale MN right away.
Wind Down Evenings With Purpose
As the sun sets and the temps dip, it’s a great time to wrap up the day with some movement and bonding.
- Dogs love a relaxed evening walk or supervised playtime in the backyard. Bring out the sprinkler or set up a shallow kiddie pool for a splash session—just make sure it’s always supervised.
- Cats may enjoy a quick game of “chase the feather” or laser tag before dinner. This can burn off excess energy and help them sleep better at night.
- Exotic pets, like ferrets or birds, often benefit from short, supervised sessions outside of their enclosures. Just make sure they stay away from open windows and ceiling fans.
Follow this with grooming time or snuggles—whatever helps your pet wind down. Consistency is key, and evening rituals can strengthen your bond.
Preventative Care: Summer’s Invisible Risks
Your pet’s routine shouldn’t just be about fun. Summer is peak season for fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests that carry diseases like Lyme disease and heartworm.
To protect your pet:
- Stay current on flea and tick prevention
- Use heartworm prevention every 30 days, especially in warm months
- Schedule a summer wellness exam to check your pet’s health baseline
- For exotic pets, check enclosure hygiene and parasite risks
We stock trusted prevention products in our online pharmacy, making it easy to keep your pet protected without an extra trip to the store.
If you’re unsure what your pet needs, our team at Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic is happy to guide you through options based on their age, species, and lifestyle. You can schedule an appointment here.
Special Notes for Exotic and Avian Companions
Living with a parrot, gecko, rabbit, or hedgehog? Summer safety looks a little different for these unique pets. Here are some quick reminders:
- Temperature regulation is important. Avoid placing enclosures in direct sunlight or near windows. Use thermometers to monitor temps.
- Humidity matters. Amphibians and some reptiles require higher humidity, which air conditioning can deplete. Mist enclosures as needed.
- Enrichment is just as important. Create climbing structures for birds, chew-safe tunnels for small mammals, and foraging toys for reptiles.
Our Oakdale veterinary team is specially trained in exotic and avian care—so never hesitate to reach out with questions about your non-traditional pets.
Keep It Simple: Why Routines Matter
Pets thrive on predictability. Summer fun doesn’t have to mean chaos. A steady routine helps reduce anxiety, improves behavior, and gives pets something to look forward to every day.
If you’re planning a vacation or anticipate a schedule change, prepare your pet gradually. Use pet sitters who can follow the routine or bring familiar items to boarding facilities.
Even 10 minutes of structured care each morning and evening can dramatically boost your pet’s well-being—both mentally and physically.
Your Summer Partner in Pet Wellness
Summer is short, but its impact on your pet’s health can be long-lasting. We are here to help you build a summer your pet will love—and thrive in.
Whether it’s stocking up on essentials, managing the heat, or supporting a senior pet’s seasonal needs, we’re just a call or click away.
Ready to set your pet up for summer success? Make an appointment today or explore our online pharmacy for everything they need.