WESTFIELD – With the official start of summer just two weeks away and hot temperatures having already arriving in Western Massachusetts on numerous occasions, the hottest weather is yet to come.
Because of heat and humidity, pet owners always have to be aware of the weather in order to keep their furry friends safe.
There are a number of ways to keep your pets safe and cool from the heat of the summer. (WNG File Photo)
Locally in Westfield, there are businesses that provide products that focus on helping keep your pets cool. At Westfield Feed on Union Street, the store has a variety of water fountains that are great for dogs to splash around with. Westfield Feed also has a fountain with a spicket that pets can be trained to use their nose to turn it on in order to get a drink.
If pet owners decide to walk their animals on hot asphalt, Westfield Feed has a number of products like Hot Guard and Furry Friend Paw Protectant that prevent pets from burning or hurting their paws when walking.
According to Linda Williams, Westfield Feed owner, it’s also important that if pet owners have a garden at their residence, to make sure all of the plants and flowers are safe for pets. This includes always following safety instructions on gardening products and finding out how long pets should stay away from that particular area.
A main concern are lawn services that commonly go to homes to spray pesticides or put fertilizer on the lawn. Williams always wants to remind pet owners to make sure they let their lawn service know they have a pet(s).
“They should make sure that they’re (lawn services) aware that they have pets,” said Williams.
