Summer Pet Care Tips

Sunshine, fresh air, and days spent relaxing outdoors are what summertime is all about. But with the hot summer weather come dangers, too. Here are a few tips to help ensure that you are your pet can safely enjoy the summer days together.

- Go for walks in the morning or evening, when temperatures are cooler.

- Keep your pet cool by providing plenty of shade and water.

- Bring water for your dog when engaging in outdoor recreation. To keep the water cool, freeze it overnight in a container. When you take it out the next day it will melt gradually, providing a steady source of cool water for a longer period of time.

- Never leave your dog unattended in the car. Even with the windows cracked open and the car parked in the shade, temperatures can rise rapidly and cause your pet to suffer heat stroke, heat exhaustion, brain damage, or death. Leave your pet in the safety and comfort of home if you cannot include him in your day's activities.

- Always supervise your pet. The beautiful summer weather lures everyone outdoors, and the potential for dog bites (especially with children) or conflict with other people or dogs is higher.

Also supervise dogs around water at all times, whether it's at the beach or at the pool. Get your dog a life jacket if you're taking him boating. Not all dogs are natural swimmers and the life jacket will help to keep him safe.

- Treat your dog with flea, tick, and heartworm preventive if these pests are a problem in your area. Traveling? Ask your veterinarian if they are an issue where you're going on vacation. Always consult your vet first before using ANY type of medication, and ask for direction before applying it to ill, pregnant, very young, or very old pets. Never apply products meant for cats to dogs, or vice versa.

- Avoid areas like sandy beaches and hot asphalt during hot summer days, as they can burn your dog's paws.

- Beware of the use of fertilizers, pesticides and insecticides on lawns, gardens, and public green spaces. These can cause illness if ingested by your dog.

- Watch your dog carefully for signs of heat stroke or exhaustion. Signs include excessive panting, a deep red or purple tongue, unsteadiness, staggering, glazed eyes, fast pulse, and vomiting. Contact a vet immediately if you notice these symptoms. Use cool water (not cold!) to cool down your pet. Even if your pet appears to be okay after a few minutes, take him to the vet to ensure he hasn't suffered any "unseen" damage.

- Keep your vet's number on hand. If you're travelling, research and then write down a list of local vet clinics just in case you need them.

- Going on holidays? Research pet-friendly lodgings well in advance and book a room. This will ensure that both you and your pet have a safe place to stay. Visit www.petfriendly.ca for hotels, motels, cottages, and resorts that allow pets.

- Make sure your dog is always wearing visible up-to-date identification in the form of a collar & ID tag. A microchip and/or tattoo is also helpful just in case the collar falls off. Proper ID can make the difference in bringing your pet home if you get separated. family - pets included!

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