We have been anticipating the summer season and looking forward to all the fun you will have with your beloved pup. Though we may know our dogs better than anyone else, it is important to remember that most of us are not medical professionals. If you are uncertain how to treat your dog’s medical needs or have any concerns, contact your veterinarian immediately.
With summer arriving, keep the following information in mind:
Health & Preventative Care
- Keep vaccinations up to date. Diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvo remain ever-present dangers, and proper vaccinations are essential.
- Watch for insect bites and stings. If your dog is bitten or stung, remove the stinger and monitor the area for allergic reactions. If a reaction occurs, or if there have been multiple bee, wasp, or mosquito bites, seek veterinary care immediately.
- Use preventative treatments. There are many natural preventatives available, along with effective do-it-yourself sprays to help protect your dog.
- Protect against heartworm. Heartworm can pose serious health risks. Schedule a heartworm check with your veterinarian every spring.
- Be cautious with lawn and garden products. Fertilizers, pesticides, and certain plants may be hazardous. Ensure anything within your dog’s reach is non-toxic.
- Maintain grooming routines. Outdoor activities may require additional brushing and bathing to help keep dogs clean and healthy.
- Prepare for emergencies. Accidents can happen, even to the most careful pet owners. Keep your veterinarian’s phone number accessible to all family members.
General Summer Safety Concerns
Hot weather can make anyone uncomfortable, including your dog. Keep these important safety tips in mind:
Heat Safety
Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or inside a closed vehicle. Heatstroke can occur quickly and may lead to brain damage or death.
Signs of heatstroke include:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Rapid pulse
- Fever
If heatstroke is suspected, immediately immerse your dog in cool water and seek emergency veterinary assistance.
- Never leave your dog in a parked car. Even when outdoor temperatures are only 80°F, the inside of a vehicle can exceed 120°F within minutes. Cracked windows do not provide adequate protection.
- Always provide access to fresh water, especially during hot weather.
- Avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat hours. Limit physical activity when temperatures are highest.
Identification & Outdoor Safety
- Ensure your dog always wears proper identification. A collar with an ID tag, combined with a microchip, provides the best protection if your pet becomes lost.
- Keep your dog on a leash outdoors to help prevent accidents and injuries.
- Do not leave pets unsupervised around pools.
Water Safety
If spending time near pools, lakes, or beaches:
- Provide plenty of fresh drinking water and discourage pets from drinking pool or lake water.
- Introduce dogs to swimming gradually.
- Use flotation devices when dogs are riding on boats or spending extended time in open water.
Paw Protection
- Beware of hot asphalt. Dogs are close to the ground and absorb heat quickly. Sensitive paw pads can burn in a matter of minutes on extremely hot surfaces.
