Summer Dangers for Pets
Summer has long been a time for holiday and barbecues. When the heat turns up, the dangers to pets increase too. To keep your dog, cat and other furry friends safe, make sure you are prepared. Tips on preventing accidents and safeguarding your pet during the summer months.
With all of the time your pet will be spending outdoors, one of the biggest dangers is ticks. We recommend that you check your pet for ticks at least once a day and look thoroughly after walks or trips through wooded areas. “Ticks can be harder to find on thicker coat dogs, and dogs are often more affected than cats are.”
Dehydration and heat stroke are very real threats when the dog days of summer are upon us. Animals should always have fresh, clean water available, whether it’s summer or the dead of winter. Carry portable water bowls on walks and bring them on holiday or long car rides. Short-nosed dogs, like pugs, Japanese chins and bulldogs, darker-colored pets, animals that are overweight or ones that have thick coats (like Himalayan or Persian cats), are especially prone to heat stress.
Don’t worry if your dog pants. “It’s how they cool themselves.”
Other ways to cool your pup? Fans, ice packs, frozen treats, ice cubes, kiddie pools and sprinklers. Your kids and dog will have a blast.
Despite what YouTube may tell us, cats and rabbits don’t like to swim. “I believe most of the animals are not enjoying it.” And not all dogs have mastered the doggie paddle. Some may not like water and certain breeds like pugs and terriers may have trouble swimming. So before you bring Fido to the beach or pool, buy a flotation device (yes, dogs can wear floaties too!) to keep your pup safe. If you are planning a boating adventure with your dog this summer, make sure he doesn’t jump overboard, which can be dangerous for animals. And never try to force your pet into the water.
We have all been guilty of it. You leave the dog or cat in the car to run a quick errand inside a store. But in the summer months or if the temperature is above 65 degrees, stop this bad habit. It’s too great a risk to your dog’s health and should not be done. So keep your pet safe and bring them with you.
Buzz. Buzz. It may not be a pleasant sound to us, but it can cause your pet to investigate. And while curiosity may not kill the cat (or dog), it can get them stung. So what should you do? Often -- nothing. If there is a lot of swelling, call your vet who can suggest an office visit or prescribe an over-the-counter medicine. Some OTCs are harmful to pets though, so never dispense them on your own.
And watch how your pet responds to any swelling. If they are very irritated, they may scratch the stung area, pulling out the fur. These “hot spots” make your pet look bald. Bring your pet to the vet right away if you notice this behavior or these spots.
Grooming is especially important in warmer weather. Brush your pet more often during the summer to get rid of excess or matted fur, which can weigh a pet down and contribute to overheating. And it depends on where you live and the type of animal you have, but if they seem uncomfortable because of their thick coat, for example dogs may pant endlessly, consider taking them to a groomer. Never cut too closely though, as a coat protects your pet from the harsh summer sun.
Everyone loves a cookout, especially your pet, who gets to feast on table scraps. But a little of this and a taste of that can be bad for pets--and not just for their waistlines. Some surprising foods, such as grapes, onions, garlic and raisins, can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities and should stay off their menu. Grapes and raisins are safe for cats, but keep onions and garlic away from them. Watch out for these BBQ favorites that can pose a problem for your pet.
These dangers may sound scary, but a little preparation and watchful eye is all you need to take the heat off your summer.