Summer Pet Fun

Dogs

Welcome to summer and all that it entails. No school, warm days, summer vacation and outdoor barbecues. Your summer may range from taking an exotic trip to just floating in your pool with a cold drink. Whatever your plans, we've gathered a menu of information, advice and options to keep you and your pet happy and healthy during the dog days of summer.

Hot Dogs! Top Dogs for Hot Climates. Although any breed can live in hot climates with proper care and grooming, some breeds tend to fare better than others. However, all dogs living in areas known for high temperatures require special attention because they cannot handle temperature extremes as well as people can. When selecting a breed of dog, consider the outside environment, especially if he will spend a lot of time outside.

Your Pet and Pool Safety. On a blistering hot day, owning a pool definitely has its advantages as a refuge from the heat. It also holds the potential for a family tragedy all year round if you are not careful. Pool safety issues for pets are almost synonymous with those for children, and they go far beyond just careful supervision.

How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer. As the cooler spring weather gives way to the hot summer months, you'll spend more time outside with your dog, walking and playing in the sunshine. But while you are having fun, you will need to keep your dog cool to protect him from heat-related illness and injury.

Summer Hazards. Summertime brings more than just warmer temperatures and sunny skies. Mosquitoes and insects are just two of the things you can expect to contend with. To make the summer more enjoyable, be aware of various summertime hazards that can result in injury or illness to your pet. Preventing these hazards can help maintain the carefree days of summer.

Summer Care of the Outdoor Dog. Whether due to space limitations or personal preference, some owners choose to keep their dog outdoors. These pets need special care in areas where summers can be brutal. Learn how you can house your dog outside safely and comfortably.

Is the Sun Dangerous to Your Pet. Just like humans, pets can overdo it in the sun. A French-fried pooch can peel, scab over and experience pain. Extreme cases can even lead to skin cancer.

Lawn and Garden Hazards. A quick stroll down the lawn and garden section of your local nursery can reveal many potential pet hazards. Caution in storing these products and limiting your pet's access to them can help ensure both a beautiful lawn and healthy pets.

Treats for Your Dogs Picnic. The pet stores are full of many different dog treats. But did you know that you can make your own healthy treats at home? Here are some recipes to help you find a way to your dog's heart.

Summer Rabbit Care. Whether living outdoors or indoors, rabbits are heat-sensitive. If the temperature begins to creep over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, you should take extra precautions to prevent heat stroke and death in rabbits. More frequent grooming in the summer can remove excess hair and help keep your rabbit cool.

Keep Your Horse Safe in the Heat. Heat stress is not just a factor in highly tuned equine athletes; it may pose even more of a hazard if your horse isn't as well conditioned as he should be. Whether you're a daily rider or a weekend equestrian, the summer heat and humidity require extra precautions so your horse doesn't overheat during or after workouts.

Fun at the Park for You and Your Dog. Sun, fresh air, mild temperatures and your dog – doesn't this sound like a recipe for a good day at the doggie park? Here are a few activities you can play that will benefit the body and spirit (yours and his). Follow the links to stories that explain these fun activities in detail.

Keeping Your Bird Safe in the Summer. It's a time for vacation trips, sending our children to summer camp and weekends at the beach. With this busy schedule, we shouldn't forget about our pet birds. What can we do to shelter them from the hot summer days?

Keeping Your Cat out of the Sandbox or Garden. For many people, summer means time playing in the sandbox or tending to a garden. If your household includes a cat that also enjoys time outside, a sandbox or garden is often considered an attractive outdoor litter box. Fortunately, there are methods that can be used to discourage this unwanted behavior.

How to Plant a Pet-Safe Garden. This is the time of year when many people look forward to spending free time outside, enhancing their surroundings with lush plants and flowers. As many pets enjoy being outside in the warm spring and summer months, too, some thought must be given to their safety in the lawn and garden. With a little careful planning, you and your pet can enjoy a safe and relaxing garden environment. Whether you're planning a large garden to feed the family or decorating a small space with hanging baskets and containers, here are a few factors to be considered.