Are you ready for Summer?
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the company of your dogs. It is also a time when they may be put at risk for overheating, tick bites, fleas, and even drowning and accidents from other recreational activities. Here are some tips to keep your dogs safe this summer.
Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworm… Oh My!
Overheating
Dogs can’t sweat the same way people do and it makes them prone to overheating. That is why you never leave a dog in a car when it is over 72 degrees – it only takes five minutes for the temperature in an enclosed car to reach 30 degrees above the air temperature outside if parked in direct sunlight. Cracking the windows doesn’t help. It isn’t just in the car, though, where dogs are prone to overheating. If your dog isn’t in shape, taking him on a ten -mile hike isn’t such a great idea. Your pup is likely to keep going until he collapses. Take frequent breaks and carry plenty of water with you on hot days – for the dog, too. If he is panting heavily or slowing down, look for a shady spot to relax together.
Portable Water
Don’t let your dog play in standing water, and don’t let him drink it. Giardia is the most common waterborne parasite dogs contract. This is easily avoidable by carrying enough water with you to keep your dog comfortable.
More Car Dangers
Keep a firm grip on your dog’s leash if he isn’t in a completely secure fenced-in area. Summer is the peak times for dogs to be hit by cars. Never “walk” your dog when on a bike or while holding the leash from behind the steering wheel. It is dangerous for both of you. Yes, it is cute when your dog hangs his head outside the window, but did you consider what even a speck of dust traveling at highway speed can do to his cornea? Keep your dog inside the car at all times, preferably restrained, to prevent injuries.
Ami Moore, a Chicago Dog Trainer, had a client call her in a panic. “She had taken her Newfie for a walk and there was blood all over her car. She couldn’t find any evidence of a cut on his paws and the vet didn’t return her call.” The owner was in complete shock when Ami told her that long walk on a hot day probably burned the dog’s paws and the blisters were bursting. Ami was right. The temperature on the ground tends to be warmer – it is part of the reason dogs tend to overheat. Sand is just as dangerous as concrete. “If it is too hot for your feet,” Ami cautions, “it is too hot for your dog’s paws, too.”
Summer Parties
We at Pupznpalz recommends leaving your beloved dog home when you are attending Summer parties, if you must take him, the following information could be helpful.
Dogs often can escape undetected from a big backyard barbecue, where they can become lost or struck by a car. Make sure your dog is secure and check on him regularly throughout your soiree. They also can be overstimulated and prone to aggressive behavior. Ensure none of your guests gives alcohol to your dog, or anything burning hot from the grill.
Parades and Fireworks
Parades can be wonderful fun – so can fireworks. But your dog may not share your enthusiasm. These events can induce anxiety and make your dog unusually fearful or aggressive. It is safest to leave your dog at home while attending these events.
Proper Identification
Keep your dog’s tags current with his name, address, and your phone number clearly visible in the event he gets away from you. Better yet, get your dog microchipped. If he is brought to the pound or a veterinarian’s office, he will be scanned and the odds of a happy reunion with you are greatly improved.
Pupznpalz thinks that the safest place for your dog during the 4th of July holiday is at home INSIDE your house. More dogs are lost and end up in shelters during this time than any other time of the year! Pupznpalz just does not think it is worth the risk!
