Help Your Dog Avoid Summer Dangers
Posted on: 26 June 2015
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Summer is a great time to get outside with your dog. Whether you have a boxer, a terrier or a pomeranian, going for walks, playing catch, and hanging out by the beach are fun for both you and your pet. However, warm weather season brings with it a whole set of potential hazards for your dog. As a good pet parent, it's important to be on the lookout for these.
1. Dehydration. Hot summer temperatures can quickly dehydrate your dog, just like they can a human. What's more, since dogs cool themselves by panting, not perspiration, they can often get in trouble more quickly than their human companions. It's important to make sure that you bring water and a dish for your dog when you go for a hike or a romp at the beach. Also, never ever leave your pet alone in the car. The temperature can rise to deadly levels even after a very short amount of time.
2. Burns on the foot pads. Hot concrete, sand, and asphalt can quickly burn your dog's tender feet. Prevent this by keeping your dog inside during the middle of the day when it's hot outside and avoiding the beach on those 90+ degree days.
3. Ticks. One of the biggest summer dangers to dogs is ticks. These blood-sucking parasites can lurk in trees, tall grass, and logs and jump unto your pet, burrowing down into his or her fur. Left undetected, these tiny pests can cause a number of health problems, from skin irritation to fever and Lyme Disease. The best solution is keeping your pet's flea and tick medication up to date. It's also a good idea to check them thoroughly with a comb as soon as they come in the house from the woods.
4. Bee stings. While humans tend to avoid a bee's buzzing, dogs are often intrigued and will follow the noise to disaster. Like humans, some dogs are allergic to bee stings. If you see your dog get stung (despite your best efforts to protect him or her), monitor the dog closely for any swelling. Take the dog to a vet, like Abri Animal Hospital, at the sign of any swelling.
Keeping your dog safe this summer doesn't have to mean keeping him or her confined to the house. However, it's important to make sure your pet has plenty of water. Be vigilant about ticks and bees, and avoid going outside on those very hot days.