How to Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer
Caroline C. of Pet-Super-Store.com
The summer months are a wonderful time for you and your dog to get out of the house, enjoy the sunshine, and stretch your legs. However, the season also brings along some dangers that can harm your pet’s health. Here are some simple, easy to follow tips for decreasing the risk of harm and keeping your buddy safe this summer.
Never Leave Your Pet in the Car
When the weather is nice the idea of bringing your pet with you as you run errands and travel may be appealing. If you are walking, this can be a very pleasant activity for you and your dog. However, the temperature inside of a parked car can rise to 120 degree in minutes. This can be deadly for pets left in the car as their owners roam away for “just a minute.” Dogs can’t sweat and even leaving your dog alone in the car for a few minutes can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and, in the most extreme cases, death. Be considerate of your pet’s comfort and leave them at home as you complete your errands.
Avoid Fertilizers and Other Chemicals
People often begin fertilizing their yards and gardens in the summer and spraying insecticide to eliminate pests. These products can be very harmful to your dog if ingested. Monitor your furry friend closely during time outdoors. Do not allow them to chew on plants, containers, and other objects you suspect may have come into contact with harmful chemicals.
Beware of Pests
With people and dogs spending more time outside, the likelihood of ticks, fleas, and other pests finding their way onto your dog increases. Check for ticks and other pests when you return home from extended periods outdoors, invest in a flea collar, and keep your pet up-to-date on their heartworm and other preventive medications.
Beat the Heat
Even when it is scorching hot outsides, pets need exercise. However, special care should be taken during times of extreme heat – particularly with older dogs and those with heavy coats. On excessively hot days, try to schedule exercise periods in the early morning or evening hours when it tends to be cooler. Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and monitor your dog for signs they are suffering from heat stress, which includes heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. These conditions are very serious and can lead to the death of your pet. If you notice any of these signs, stop the activity you are doing, move to shade or air conditioning, and provide your dog with small amounts waters. If your pet does not seem to be regaining their typical vigor after a few moments, proceed directly to your veterinarian.
Use Common Sense
Your best defense against disaster befalling your pet during the summer months is your own common sense. Keep your pet on a lease when out in public areas. Make sure your dog is wearing a collar and identification tags. On the off chance you are separated from your pet, an easy to decipher ID tag is likely to lead to a quick reunion. And always remember that if you are feeling overheated, dehydrated, and in need of rest, your dog is probably feeling the same way!
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This article was written by Caroline C. of Pet-Super-Store.com. Caroline is bona fide animal lover and lives in Atlanta with her dog, Pinot. Please visit her site for a wide variety of dog fences and dog beds.Fido’s favorite summer treat
Add 1 tablespoon of chicken brooth to 2 cups of water, pour into an icecube tray and freeze. A super cool treat on a hot day.
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