Summer is the time of year when people enjoy getting outside with their pets to be active in the great outdoors. To ensure both you and your pet have a fun time, remember the following summer safety tips.
5 Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe This Summer
Be Mindful of the Heat:
Pets tend to overheat faster than people, putting them at an elevated risk of suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Pay attention to the temperature and humidity, especially for short-muzzled breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus.
Ensure your pet has access to plenty of fresh drinking water and shade.
Be mindful of walking your dog on paved areas later in the day when the pavement heats up.
Never leave your dog unattended in the car, even for a couple of minutes, as the temperature inside reaches dangerous levels surprisingly fast.
Protect Them From the Sun:
Dogs can get sunburn too. Breeds at higher risk include hairless breeds, dogs with short/thin coats, and dogs with light-pigmented noses and eyelids.
If your dog is at risk, safe dog sunscreens can be applied to protect their exposed skin.
If your pet receives a summer haircut, leave at least an inch of length to keep them protected if they have a long coat.
Permanent Identification:
Identification is important so your pet can be returned to you if they get lost, especially if they travel or are afraid of thunderstorms.
A collar with your pet’s name and contact info is necessary.
A more permanent option is a pet microchip, which increases the chances of reuniting you with your pet.
Remember Parasite Prevention:
Summer is the time when pets are at an increased risk of picking up internal parasites like intestinal worms and heartworms, as well as external parasites like fleas and ticks.
Highly effective and safe preventative options are available to protect pets during these high-risk months.
Swim Safely:
Swimming is a perfect summer activity for dogs, but not all dogs enjoy or are able to swim. Test the waters slowly and safely before jumping into the deep end.
Some dog breeds have trouble staying afloat and should always wear a life jacket when in the water.
All breeds should wear a lifejacket if they are going on a boat or will be swimming in water too deep for them to stand.
Vaccinations… more than just Rabies:
Fun warm-weather activities can bring an increased risk for diseases such as Rabies, Lyme Disease, and Leptospirosis.
These diseases can make dogs sick and can even be fatal.
Highly effective and safe vaccinations are available to protect your pet against these diseases.
