Hot Weather Tips!

Friday marked the first official day of summer and I thought I should share some important hot weather safety tips for pups. Did you know that pups and kitties can suffer from the same problems that humans do, such as overheating, dehydration and even sunburn? By following these simple precautions from the ASPCA, pups can enjoy the summer and also stay happy and healthy.

*A visit to the veterinarian for a spring or early summer check-up is a must. Pet owners are urged to have a heartworm test performed if their dog isn't on year-round preventive medication. If parasites bug your animal companions, ask your doctor to recommend a safe, effective flea and tick control program.

*Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle -- the results could be fatal. Even with the windows open, a parked automobile can quickly become a furnace. Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun shifts during the day.

*Always carry a gallon thermos filled with cold, fresh water when traveling with your pet.

*The best time for playtime is in the cool of the early morning or evening, but never after a meal or when the weather is humid.

*Street Smarts: When temperatures are very high, don't let your dog stand on hot asphalt. His or her body could heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn. Keep walks during extremely hot times to a minimum.

*A day at the beach is a no-no, unless pet owners can guarantee a shaded spot and plenty of fresh water for their pets. Salty dogs should be rinsed off after a dip in the ocean.

*Provide fresh water and plenty of shade for animals kept outdoors; a properly constructed doghouse serves best. Bring dogs or cats inside during the heat of the day to rest in a cool part of the house.

*Be especially sensitive to older and overweight animals in hot weather. Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs, such as bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, Lhasa apsos and shih tzus, as well as those with heart or lung diseases, should be kept cool in air-conditioned rooms as much as possible.

*When walking a dog, steer clear of areas that may been sprayed with insecticides or other chemicals.

*Pet owners should be alert for coolant or other automotive fluid leaking from vehicles. Animals are attracted to the sweet taste, and ingesting just a small amount can be fatal. Call a veterinarian immediately if there are signs of poisoning.

*Good grooming can stave off summer skin problems, especially for dogs with heavy coats. Shaving the hair to a 1-inch length is a possibility with some breeds, but should never be shaved down to the skin because it robs dogs of protection from the sun. Cats should be brushed often.

*Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to pets if it is not labeled specifically for use on animals. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellent that contains DEET can lead to neurological problems.

*Having a backyard barbecue? Always keep matches, lighter fluid, citronella candles and insect coils out of pets' reach.

*Pet owners should make sure there are no open, unscreened windows or doors in their homes because animals can fall or jump out of them.

*Stay alert for signs of overheating in pets, which include excessive panting and drooling and mild weakness, along with an elevated body temperature.

I'll be barking to you later!