Keeping Your Pets Safe This Summer
Summer is finally here 🔴 That means fun in the
sun for humans and pets alike! But the warm weather also brings new dangers for
our furry friends. As a pet owner, it's important to be aware of summertime
risks so you can keep your pets safe all season long.
Ø Watch Out for Heatstroke
Dogs and cats can't regulate their body temperature as
efficiently as humans can. Left unchecked on a hot day, they can develop
heatstroke, which can become life-threatening very quickly.
Some signs of overheating in pets include:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling️
- Rapid heartbeat
- Red or pale gums
- Dizziness or disorientation
- Vomiting or diarrhea
If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, get
them into shade and contact your vet right away. Avoid vigorous exercise on
extremely hot days and always make sure your pet has access to fresh water.
Leaving pets unattended in vehicles during summer is a big no-no, as
temperatures inside a car can soar dangerously high in just minutes, even with
the windows cracked.
Ø Protect Against Sunburn
Believe it or not, pets can get sunburned too.
Light-colored animals and those with thin coats are most susceptible. Limit
time in the midday sun and apply pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like
the tips of ears and nose. This will prevent painful burns.
Watch for signs of sunburn like reddening, peeling, or
blistering of the skin. Contact your vet if you notice any changes. You may
need medication to manage discomfort.
Ø Keep Pests at Bay
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos thrive in the summer. These
pests aren't just a nuisance - they can transmit diseases and parasites to pets
and humans alike.
Use veterinarian-recommended prevention medications
starting in early spring before pests are in full force. Do routine tick checks
after spending time outdoors. Remove any you find ASAP with tweezers.
Also pour out any standing water in your yard at least
once a week. This eliminates mosquito breeding grounds.
Ø Avoid Toxic Plants
Pay attention to what plants your pet is nibbling on when
outside. Many common garden and wild plants are toxic to animals like lilies,
azaleas, rhododendrons, and oleander.
Toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal issues like
vomiting or diarrhea. Other symptoms depending on the plant include seizures,
abnormal heart rate, and even liver damage or neurological problems.
Familiarize yourself with plants that are poisonous and
avoid planting them in your yard. Supervise your pet when visiting other
people's homes or public parks. Also, don't let your cat nibble on houseplants,
as many varieties are toxic.
Ø Practice Pool Safety
Always supervise pets around pools, hot tubs, or ponds.
Not all dogs are pro swimmers! Should your pet fall in accidentally, be ready
to pull them out quickly. Also install fencing or barriers around water
features when not in use.
Consider investing in a pet ramp or steps for exiting the
pool. This allows pets that do enjoy swimming to enter and exit the water
safely on their own.
Ø Prep for Power Outages
Summer storms can lead to power outages that
last for hours or even days. Get an emergency kit prepared that includes:
- Bottled water
- Backup power source
- Non-perishable pet food
- Manual can opener
- Medications
- Important documents
- First aid supplies
This will keep your pet comfortable until electricity is
restored. Check that their ID and microchip info is up to date in case you need
to evacuate.
Ø Practice Good Pet Hygiene
With pets spending more time outdoors, it's important to
maintain good hygiene and grooming. Brush your pet regularly to remove dirt,
loose hair, and parasittes. Schedule annual vet visits to keep vaccinations up
to date as well.
Trim overgrown hair that could cause summer matting and
discomfort. Bathe pets as needed with gentle, pet-safe products to prevent dry
skin or skin irritation. Pay extra attention to the coat, ears, eyes, nails,
and teeth.
Ø Prioritize Parasite Prevention
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and
giardia flourish in warmer weather. These can pass between pets through contact
with infected feces or soil. Some parasites can even infect humans!
Work with your vet to choose a monthly parasite
preventative medication that covers all common worms and giardia. Administer
year-round without interruption, and have yearly fecal exams done. Promptly
dispose of pet waste in outdoor trash bins.
Ø Manage Allergies
Does your pet suffer from seasonal allergies? The
combination of pollen, dust, and humidity can aggravate symptoms like itchy
skin, runny eyes, sneezing, and wheezing.
Talk to your vet about anti-itch shampoos,
antihistamines, or other ways to manage allergies. Keep your home clean and run
air filters to trap irritants. Wipe down paws after going outside to prevent
spread.
Ø Prioritize Playtime
Don't let the lazy days of summer keep your pet from
getting exercise! Maintain regular play and activity routines to prevent
obesity and boredom when school is out.
Seek out dog-friendly hiking trails, lakes, beaches, or
parks. Schedule play dates with neighbor pets for socialization. Break out the
toys and play a game of fetch in the backyard. Considering enrolling in a
training class for mental stimulation. Just be sure to avoid overexertion on
extremely hot days.
Stay Diligent About Diet
When pets are more active in warmer weather, their
nutrition needs change too. Feed pets a bit less to compensate for the extra
calories burned through play. Provide ample clean water and consider switching
to a lighter diet formula.
Avoid unhealthy scraps from summer BBQs or other rich
people foods. Stick to the diet recommended by your vet for optimal nutrition
all season long. Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain.
Ø Enjoy a Safe, Fun Summer
By following these tips for summertime pet safety and
health, you and your furry companion will be primed for a pawsome season full
of new adventures and making memories! Pay attention to the unique risks that
warmer weather poses, and take action to keep your pet happy and healthy all
summer long.
