We wish you and your furry family all the best – hoping that you enjoy Summer 2009!!! Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe and healthy this summer season.
Avoid Taking Your Pet on Errands - During warm weather, the inside of a car can reach 120° in a matter of minutes, even if parked in the shade. Pets left in hot cars, even briefly, can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die.
Keep Your Pets Hydrated - Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while outdoors so they can stay cool. Ample fresh water should be available indoors as well.
Limit Exercise in the Heat - On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws.
Avoid Lawns and Flower Beds – Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. In addition, more than 700 plants can be toxic to your pets.
Limit Sun Exposure - Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.
Fleas, Ticks, & Heartworm Disease – Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes – check with your vet if your pet needs heartworm prevention. Fleas and ticks can also be a problem – use only flea & tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian.
Heat Stroke
In summer heat your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion & heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and could cause your pet to die. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, including: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower his body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over his body to gradually lower his core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet’s head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.
