(Image: Wix)
I think that summer is finally here and it is important to remember that our pets can suffer the same issues we do in the heat and sun. Most people love to spend time outdoors with friends and family but it is important to remember that some activities can be dangerous for our pets. Here are some precautions to help keep your pet from overheating.
1. A visit to the vet in spring or early summer to be tested for heartworm and start monthly prevention for fleas and ticks.
2. Pets can get dehydrated easily so give them plenty of fresh, clean water, especially when it is hot outdoors. You need to change that water often during the day.
3. Make sure they have a place to get out of the sun. A shady area can help prevent your pet from sunstroke and also some breeds have very short hair and can get sunburned!
4. Be able to recognize the symptoms of overheating in pets. They include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness or even collapsing. If your pet gets too hot he could have seizures, diarrhea and vomiting. Animals with flat faces like Pugs and Persian cats are more susceptible to heat stroke because they cannot pant as effectively.
5. Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle. On a hot day a parked car can become a furnace in no time, even with the windows open.
6. Get a doggy pool for your pooch to take a dip in! If you take your pooch out on your boat make sure you put a life jacket on him!.
7. Get a haircut! Feel free to get your dog a trim but never shave him to the skin. His fur offers protection from overheating and sunburn.
8. When taking your dog for walks avoid asphalt during peak heat periods of the day. Try walking in the evenings when it isn't so hot to avoid burns to your dog's feet.
9. Backyard BBQ. This is always a "bone" of contention with many dog owners. Dogs are not garbage disposals for all the leftovers, and they can suffer from severe digestive ailments just like we do. And no alcoholic drinks either, they can lead to intoxication, depression and coma.
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