Serving the community since 1984

Summer Pet Safety Tips & Care

3 min read

Summer in Massachusetts means backyard barbecues, beach trips, and quality time with family-but if you're a pet owner in Assonet, the heat and travel season bring real challenges for your furry friends. Whether you're heading out of town or just dealing with the summer humidity, Berkley Kennel (Country Time Pet Retreat) is here to help you keep your pets safe, cool, and happy through the warmest months.

Beat the Summer Heat: Why Your Assonet Pets Need Extra Care

Summer heat is one of the toughest seasons for dogs and cats. Unlike humans, pets can't sweat efficiently, and those thick coats that protected them in winter are now working against them. If you live in Assonet and spend your days outdoors, your pets are likely doing the same-and they're feeling it. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and burned paw pads on hot pavement are real risks. We recommend keeping your pets indoors during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), providing constant access to fresh water, and limiting exercise to early morning or evening walks. A frozen treat or a kiddie pool in the backyard can be lifesavers for keeping them entertained while staying cool.

Grooming Matters More in Summer

Think of grooming as an investment in your pet's summer comfort, not just aesthetics. A professional bath and brush-out removes loose fur and helps air circulate through their coat-keeping them cooler without sacrificing the protection their fur provides. Many pet owners in the Assonet area bring their dogs to Berkley Kennel for summer maintenance trims, lighter shave-downs, or de-matting sessions that reduce matting and improve airflow. Our experienced groomers are skilled at hand-selecting styles that keep your dog cool without overdoing the cut.

Travel Plans? Trust Your Assonet Pets to Berkley Kennel

Summer is prime travel season, and if you're planning a week away from Assonet-whether it's a beach vacation, family reunion, or work trip-your pets need a safe, cool place to stay. Berkley Kennel's boarding facilities are air-conditioned in summer, spacious, and designed so your dog can enjoy both indoor comfort and outdoor playtime. Unlike leaving them home alone, our boarding suites give your pet 80 square feet of secure space, access to supervised play, and the attention of experienced staff who genuinely care. Cats prefer separate, peaceful quarters, and we provide those too-along with enrichment toys, climbing areas, and attentive care.

Daycare Is a Game-Changer for Busy Summer Days

Not leaving town? If you're a busy professional in Assonet juggling summer schedules, our doggie daycare program is a lifesaver. Your dog gets socialized with other dogs, supervised group play, guided nature walks, and safe space to burn off energy in our secured outdoor area-all while you're at work or running errands. Regular daycare reduces anxiety, prevents destructive behavior at home, and keeps your pet physically fit and mentally stimulated. Plus, our air-conditioned facility beats the heat outside.

Book Early-Summer Fills Up Fast

August is peak season, and spots fill up quickly at Berkley Kennel. If you're planning a late-summer getaway from Assonet, don't wait. We recommend calling us at 508-823-1903 or booking online to secure your dog's stay. We're just a short drive from Assonet in Berkley, so pickup and drop-off are convenient, and you can have peace of mind knowing your pet is in caring, professional hands.

Your Assonet Pets Deserve the Best

At Country Time Pet Retreat, we've been serving Assonet families and surrounding communities since 1984. We know your pets aren't just animals-they're family. That's why we treat every dog and cat like our own, with spacious accommodations, attentive staff, and a genuine commitment to keeping them safe, comfortable, and happy. This summer, let us handle the worry while you enjoy your time away.

Ready to book? Visit berkleykennel.com or call 508-823-1903 to reserve your pet's spot at Berkley Kennel. We're open 7 days a week, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. and 5 p.m.-7 p.m., and we're located at 51 Elm Street in Berkley-just minutes from Assonet.