1. Don't Leave Your Dog In Your Car.
I know you think you know better but come on, it's just going to be a few minutes in the store. Don't do it. Hundreds of dogs die every year from heat after being in a hot car.
According to the ASPCA, six minutes even when windows are down or the car is in the shade is enough time to kill your dog. Dogs can become dehydrated quickly.Temperatures inside the vehicle can more than double the outside temperatures. in a short period of time. Dogs such as Pugs Bulldogs or other dogs with short faces can suffer more because of difficulty breathing. Elderly and obese dogs also have a greater risk of heat stroke. Other contributors are heart disease and dogs with thick coats. It is important to remember that heat stroke is an emergency. Symptoms include drooling, excessive panting or difficulty breathing, mild weakness or even seizures. Veterinarians suggest in the event of heatstroke you use water to wet the dog's face to cool them off. Do not completely submerge your dog underwater or use ice to cool them off as it can bring the temperatures down to fast.Wet the paws, head, and tail and armpits. Contact emergency veterinarian even if the dog is responding to treatment because damage to internal organs is a possible side effect of heat stroke.
2. Supervise swimming.
Most people think dogs are natural swimmers but not all dogs are good swimmers. Even good swimmers can tire in a pool or lake and become disoriented and drown. So please supervise your beloved pet around pools. Pets must wear flotation devices if on a boat.And no drinking the pool water. It can cause stomach upset. Needless to say, keep all animals away from chemicals, pool or otherwise due to the toxic nature if ingested.
3. Protect against pests.
Ensure your pet is current on his or her flea and tick prevention medication. Even so, when walking in the woods or camping, check for ticks frequently. Get a heartworm test at the vet every year. Snake avoidance training is available in many areas now to train your dog to sense that snakes equal danger. My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel loves to chase bees and wasps. Fortunately, she has not gotten stung. I have heard the biggest concern is the number of stings. That is what can cause immense swelling. Be aware that some lawn products can be poisonous if ingested. Avoid areas where you suspect recent spray with insecticides.
4. Riding safely.
Just as we must wear safety belts to ensure our safety, it is important to protect our pets as well. Many states have even banned drivers from traveling with their pets in their lap. And for good reason. A 10 lb unrestrained dog according to AAA, in a car traveling 30 miles an hour will exert 300 pounds of force during a crash. Pets often suffer multiple injuries when in an auto accident as a result of not being restrained properly. So find the appropriate restraint for your pet before your summer travels begin.
5. Party Beggars
Summertime is the best time for outdoor fun, parties, and food. Your pet, however, does not know that the food you are offering your guests could be harmful to him or her. And you know they love to beg for whatever you have. Many foods including grapes, onion, raisins chocolate and products with artificial sweeteners can give pets severe digestive ailments. Some pets are more sensitive to diet changes than others and too much of a good thing (from Fido's perspective) can cause pancreatitis. Pancreatitis in dogs may require hospitalization. Additionally, alcoholic beverages can not only cause intoxication but coma or death. So let Fido have fun at the party, just not with your food and drink.
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