As the mercury soars and the 'dog days of summer' set in, please remember what this means for our animal friends. Dogs and cats can be victim to the same summertime problems as their owners are, overheating, dehydration, and sunburn. With common sense and a little effort, our pets can get thru the season comfortably.
Our outdoor animals need fresh, clean water and shade. If they live in an outdoor enclosure, it should be constructed so there is as much airflow as possible and even in warm weather, they need a dog house or other type of shelter to protect them from the elements...rain, hail, lightening and thunder. Their enclosures should not have cement or asphalt floors as the sun reflects making it even hotter and their sensitive paws can burn on the scorching surfaces.
Some breed of dogs such as the snub nosed Pug, Pekingese or Bulldog should not be outside during warm temperatures (generally over 82 degrees F) Older or overweight pets also need special consideration. All of these animals would benefit by being inside where it is cooler during the more extreme hours of the day, generally from about 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Walks and exercise for even healthy dogs should be done in the morning or evening when the temperatures are somewhat more moderate. Take a water bottle and collapsible bowl or a thermos for frequent rehydration breaks.
Be aware of the signs of heat stroke:
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy or weakness
- High body temperature
- Collapse, seizure or coma
If you notice any of these symptoms, get your dog to a cool place and apply wet towels and contact your veterinarian.
Every good pet owner should know the danger of leaving your beloved pet in a vehicle. Even if 'just for a minute', this can be fatal for an animal.
Summertime can also mean thunderstorms as well as Independence Day fireworks and firecrackers. All of which can be very loud and scary for animals. Many dogs who are frightened by loud noises will run, become disoriented and lost. If a storm looms or you are in an area where 4th of July celebrations are booming, please take your dog indoors. A room where your pet is least disturbed, maybe the basement or an interior bathroom could help calm his fears. Comfort your pet or distract him with playtime to calm his fear.
Other considerations for your pet are flea/tick control and heartworm prevention. Your veterinarian can best recommend a regimen tailored to your particular pets needs and circumstances.
As always, your pet should wear a collar with clear identification that includes his address and phone number. This could be his ticket back to you in the event you should ever become separated.
Old man winter is upon us and when those cold winds blow, be sure that our furry friends feel the effects of that cold too. The best option for our pets in wintertime is to bring them indoors. Particularly puppies who may get sick or older dogs who are affected by the cold. If you have an adult dog who weathers outdoors in the winter months there are some tips to keep him more comfortable.
- Provide your dog with warm shelter that is off the ground and free of drafts. Give him lots of hay or a blanket or pet pillow so he can insulate himself.
- Extra food in the winter time to accommodate his caloric needs and additional protein to keep his coat healthy.
- Fresh water 2 or 3 times a day to ensure it has not iced over leaving him dehydrated.
- Salt and sand can become imbedded in the pads of your pets feet. Check his feet and keep them clean. Some owners have sprayed them lightly with cooking spray so debris is less likely to become a problem.
- Any antifreeze spill or puddles should be thoroughly cleaned immediately. Antifreeze has a sweet taste to it that could lure a pet but even a very small amount ingested can be fatal.
- Small breed dogs and those with less fur can benefit from a sweater. These little ones are best to be outside to relieve themselves and then go back in.
- Don't leave pets locked in a car. Temperatures can become frigid even inside a car.
- Cats should live indoors all year round but if your cat goes outside in the winter or if you have outdoor neighboring kitties, always bang on your vehicle or check under the hood before starting your engine. Cats frequently crawl under cars and up under the hood to stay warm.
- Remember that dogs or cats can more easily become lost in the winter. Snow and ice can cause them to lose their scent or become disoriented. Don't allow them off the leash during a snow storm and be sure they are wearing current ID information. (a must all times of the year!)