The summer season is not too far away, bringing with it warmer temps and longer days. It’s the perfect time to spend some time outdoors with your pet. The change in season, however, also means additional dangers and hazards that could cause harm to your animal companion. Here are several tips to help you enjoy a safe, happy and healthy summer season with your pet.
- Always provide your pet with access to adequate shade and fresh water.
- Choose the early morning or later evening hours, when the temperatures are cooler, to engage in exercise with your pet.
- Prepare your pet with adequate flea, tick and heart worm protection. (Check with your vet before applying any commercial products.)
- Always supervise your pet, particularly around water or around children and other animals.
- Never leave an animal in a hot vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, the temperatures within a car can rise to unbearable levels and cause anything from heat stroke and heat exhaustion, to brain damage, or even death.
- Be cautious of pesticides and other chemicals used for yards or gardens as they can be toxic if ingested by your pet.
- Keep your pet’s identification up to date, just in case he or she breaks away during a nice-weather outing.
- Watch carefully for signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. These signs include excessive panting, a dark red or purple tongue, staggering, stumbling or unsteadiness, glazed or glossy eyes, fast pulse, and vomiting. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, provide cool (not cold) water and contact your vet immediately.
- Avoid areas with hot sand or concrete, as these surfaces can become so hot that they could burn your pet’s sensitive paws.
- Always keep your vet’s phone number handy. You never know when a situation may arise that you may need to get some advice or make an appointment quickly.
The summer is sure to bring fun, good times and great weather. Sharing these experiences with your pet can be rewarding for both of you. Just be sure to follow the tips provided here so that you and your animal companion can enjoy your summertime activities without incident.
