Summer
American writer, Charles Bowden, said, “Summertime is always the best of what might be.” The days grow longer, temperatures rise, and there is an array of outdoor activities for you to enjoy with family, friends, and furry friends so you can fully embrace the best of what the season offers. There are countless ways to enjoy the upcoming summer days, but there are some safety tips to follow to make sure they’re fun for all, including your pets.
Some Very Important Tips
Protecting your pet from too much summer fun is just one way to show them how much you love them. Some tips are common sense tips, like:
- Don’t let your pet do strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day
- Take them for walks when the temperatures (both outdoor and asphalt) are cooler
- Use sunscreen on their noses and ears (yours, too)
- Provide them with a wading pool or another way to cool down
- Make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink
- Never leave your pet in a parked car
- Make sure windows are screened and outside doors are closed so they don’t escape
- Make sure they don’t eat meat with bones in it (especially chicken bones)
- Keep alcohol away from your pets and make sure you clean up any spills from alcohol
- Keep your pets away from areas that have been chemically treated
- Know whether your dog can swim (not all of them can)
These tips are fairly straightforward, but there are some other things to be aware of, too.
One of the most significant dangers for pets during the summer is heatstroke. If your pet is older, overweight, has other health concerns, or, in the case of dogs, is a brachycephalic breed (with a short muzzle and flatter face), they’re more susceptible to heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Signs of it include:
- Bright red tongue or gums
- White or blue gums
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Heavy panting
- Drooling
- Seizures
- Weakness or collapse
If you suspect your pet has been stricken with heatstroke, it’s imperative to get them inside to a cool spot, fan them, spray them gently with cool water and immediately call your veterinarian.
Additional Safety Items
There are preventive things to keep in mind if you want your pet to have the safest summer possible. You should consider:
- Microchipping your pet
- Ensuring that their license is current
- Making sure their vaccinations are up to date
- Ensuring that they are protected from fleas, ticks, and heartworm disease
- Carrying a collapsible bowl and water with you to keep your pet hydrated
Pets become dehydrated easily. Signs of it are:
- Panting
- Mouth that appears dry
- Lethargy
- Thick saliva
You may be able to treat the beginning stages of dehydration by giving your pet small amounts of water frequently, but you should contact your veterinarian about this, too.
South Hyland Pet Hospital
South Hyland Pet Hospital in Minneapolis, MN wants you to make the best summer memories with your family, including your furry family members. We’re here if you need us for preventive care, or in case your pet requires other care. Contact us so you and your pet can make the best summer memories ever.
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