Summer Pet Care & Safety

For many of us, summer does not come too soon. After a long and gloomy winter, we expect the rewards and relaxation associated with the warm summer months. Maybe we have planned a vacation near a lake, river or the ocean. Maybe we are planning to swim, walk, ride a boat and ride a bike or maybe just frolic in the backyard or catch up reading under a shady tree. We most likely plan many outdoor and entertaining activities. We may also be planning to participate in activities that involve our animal companions. After all, summer is a wonderful time to spend more quality play time and exercise time with our pets. However, it is also a time when we should be aware of some potential unique risks to the safety and well-being of our pet.

We can enjoy taking our dogs for a ride in the car: some pets seem to not have enough wind blowing through their fur and the visual and oral stimulation that accompanies them traveling so quickly through so many different parts of the city and / or However, although we enjoy taking our pets with us to do errands and adventures, it is very important to remember that, during the hot weather, the interior of your car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes and that countless pets suffer from a heat stroke. or heat exhaustion, brain damage and death while their owners leave them in the car "for a few minutes".

Dogs should be walked at dawn and early in the evening to avoid discomfort and adverse effects of heat. They should be provided with plenty of healthy, fresh water and shade whenever they are outside during the heat. They should be checked frequently to make sure they are not overheated or dehydrated.

Pets need exercise even when it is hot outside, but they are also susceptible to sunburn. It is a good idea to place sunscreen on the most vulnerable areas, that is, the noses, the tips of the ears. Etc. Pets with light-colored fur are particularly vulnerable to sunburn or skin cancer.

Ticks and fleas pose a serious safety hazard for the summer. Use flea and tick medications recommended by your veterinarian.

Another very serious health risk is that of heart parasites, which are transmitted by mosquitoes. All dogs and cats should be treated with prevention medications recommended by the veterinarian. An advanced case of heartworm disease can be not only dangerous but also fatal to your pet.

It is not a good idea to take your pet to busy summer fairs, festivals or other concerts or outdoor events. The commotion along with the heat can make your pet sick and confuse it. Always remember that your pet is wearing a collar and an identification tag, and that he is wearing a leash.

If you plan to be in or near a pool, make sure your pet is under supervision and can not fall over and drown. Never allow your pet to have free access to a pool, lake or river.

If you plan to work in your garden, make sure your pet does not ingest fertilizers or pesticides. These can be highly toxic, harmful and even fatal.

Sharing the fun of the summer season with your pet can be rewarding for both. Following this simple advice, it can happen that you and your pet enjoy other summers together.