Summertime offers so many opportunities for enjoyment with your pup – hikes, trips to the park, dips in the pool. But along with all that fun, pet owners need to be alert to the risks that the hot weather brings. To make sure you and your dog have a great summer together, keep these safety tips in mind.
1.Summer is the high season for ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes. See to it your dog is protected with an effective preventative. There are numerous options available. Your pet can recommend the right product and dosage for your dog.
2.Lawn services are spraying chemicals on lawns during spring and summer; keep your dog away from treated grass.
3.Avoid over-exertion on very hot days. Watch out for extreme heat and the mid-day sun. Plan walks and outside playtime for the mornings and evenings.
4.A dog can get sunburn on their nose and ears. Look for sunscreens that are specifically formulated for dogs ( Yes, they make doggy sunscreen.)
5.Watch our for hot surfaces like blacktop pavement that can get burning hot in the sun. Same goes for metal park benches. If it burns your hand when you touch it, it will feel the same to their paws.
6.Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh drinking water and lots of shade available when outside. Doghouses do not provide enough ventilation to keep dogs cool.
7.Try to not plant or grow flowers and bushes in your yard that attract bees. Dogs can get stung and, just like humans, some have severe allergic reactions. Be on the lookout for hives or wasp nests on your property.
If you have a pool or spend time at the lake, make certain your dog can swim. Don’t just assume they can. Use a doggy life jacket. Don’t let your dog drink pool water or lake water. Same goes for when you’re at the beach- salty seawater can make a dog sick.
And finally, NEVER EVER leave a dog in a car, even for a few minutes. This is the number one cause of heatstroke, which can be fatal, in dogs.
