Fun in the sun means more time outdoors for you and probably for your pet. This is mostly great news, but there are some potential downsides to all the fun that you can cut off at the pass.
Summer Dangers for Dogs and Cats
With more sun come warmer temperatures, so watch for:
1. SUNBURNS
Your dog's and cat's skin is vulnerable to the effects of the sun. Surprised? They can develop sunburn and skin cancer; so especially watch it if your animals have short hair. Probably best to walk early in the day or later in the evening to reduce overall exposure. If your dog is an outdoor pet, make sure there is a place for him to lay in the shade.
2. DEHYDRATION
Symptoms include rapid and or shallow breathing, lethargic behavior, dry gums, and sunken eyes. Make sure your dogs aren’t in the sun for long periods of time, don’t let them overly exert themselves, and make sure that they have plenty of water.
3. WATER DANGERS
- If your dog likes the water, hopefully they swim well, but beyond that, waterlogged ears can lead to ear problems.
- Make sure to check your dog and help them remove excess water.
- Don’t let your dog drink from the ocean, pool, or stagnant water all of these can lead to some sort of digestive malady
4. INSECT AND ANIMAL DANGERS
- Snake bites can cause major harm to your dog.
- Mosquitos and fleas are likely to be in abundance during summer. Mosquitos are known for causing heartworm and fleas create a number of problems for you and your dog. It’s important during the summer months to keep your pets on preventatives if needed.
- Check your dog for ticks after you take them on longer walks.
- Protect your dog from stingers like bees and wasps by keeping their curiosity away from hives and nests.
5. POISONS
- Avoid allowing your dog to lick sunscreen from your skin, or from the bottle. These chemicals often make your dog sick.
- Protect pets from exposure to bug sprays
6. SUMMER ALLERGIES
- Ear infections
- Itchy eyes
- Paw irritations
If these present try to limit outside time if symptoms persist see your veterinarian.
7. PARTY TIME
At barbecues, don't fee them the fatty or inappropriate foods that would be typical at a barbecue (corn on the cobb, onions, desserts, etc.). These can make your dog sick.
Fireworks can really cause stress and anxiety in some dogs, so shelter them from this as much as possible this Fourth of July. Also, make sure they are safe and secure and can’t get out of their enclosures and subject themselves to potential danger of being lost or struck by a vehicle.
With a little thought and planning ahead of time you can make sure your dog is protected and can be right there with the family having a blast this summer. Best of times!