It is now the start of summer and that means taking steps to protect pets when they're out in the heat. Here are just a few tips on how to keep your pet healthy and comfortable this summer.
 
Remember, especially during the summer months, prevention is the key to fighting heat and associated dehydration and keeping your dog happy and healthy.
 

• Don’t leave your pet in the car - Even a 5 to 10 minute trip means that temperatures could exceed 120 degrees in a car with closed window, remember dogs can’t sweat if temperatures are too high.

• Exercise early - Be sure to walk your pet early in the morning or at dusk to avoid hot tarmac and midday heat. The hot sun can heat up roads and cause paw pads to blister. If it's a long walk, be sure to bring along some water.

• Dogs can’t sweat -The only way for a dog to cool down is to pant. Don’t leave your pet outside for too long and always make sure they have access to fresh water. To help your pet cool off, moisten their belly and chest with cool water and let it evaporate.

• Read up on your breed -Some types of dogs are especially prone to overheating or sunburn. Short-snouted dogs find it harder to breathe in hot, humid weather and can get heat exhaustion more quickly than other breeds. Read up and see if your dog has any special needs.

• Up to date ID tags are crucial - Just in case your pet does happen to be a top escape artist, keep current identification tags on their collars at all times. Also consider micro chipping your pet if you haven’t already. Both tags and a microchip help ensure a pet’s safe return.

• Prevent infection - In the summer months there is an influx of flea, tick and heartworm so prevention is essential.

• Garden fertilizers - Spring and summer is a great time for lawn care and gardening but some materials used can be poisonous to pets. Check lawn fertilizers to make sure they are pet-friendly.

• Swim with caution - If your pet swims in any local bodies of water, make sure they are up to date on their shots as polluted water can mean infections. Accidental drowning can also be a concern, so before they enter the water, make sure there is a safe place for your pet to get out of the water. If you take your pet on a boat or your pet isn’t a strong swimmer, consider purchasing a pet life jacket.

• Pets can get sunburn- Dogs can and do get sunburn, heatstroke and skin cancer, just like people. A dog's coat provides insulation and protection, whether it's against winter cold or summer heat. You can give your dog a trim when needed, but avoid the close shave if your dog will be in the direct sun for even a short period of time and especially if you have a breed type known to have fair skin. Many owners are not aware that they can even apply waterproof, non-toxic sunscreen with a maximum SPF 15 to any exposed areas for extended times in the sun. There are also special pet sun creams which can be used on pets with white fur or damaged skin.

• Long-haired dogs need brushing - If you don’t want your dog shaved down to “velvet,” be sure to brush him or her regularly before a grooming appointment. Long-haired dogs feel different if shaved down too much, but the recommended one-and-a-half-inch fur length cannot be achieved pain-free if the dog has not been brushed regularly. However some work must be done at home.

• Vaccinations are important - The start of summer is a great time to take your pet in for an examination so that you can be sure your friend is up-to-date on all required vaccines and to have the vet screen for any new illnesses.

With the weather warming up, many people will be stoking up their barbecues. But pet owners should take extra precautions to ensure their pets stay safe when the heat is on.  

• Food scraps - A rack of ribs may be delicious to us, but it is dangerous for your pets. Bone splinters can be harmful and the meat is generally too fatty so avoid the temptation to sneak a bone treat to your pet. Undercooked, unfamiliar or fatty food can cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

• If your grill is out in the open, keep your dog in sight. Accidental burns can happen when the BBQ King/Queen gets sidetracked and the dog jumps up to grab a morsel.

• Bin it – make sure any leftover food and rubbish is properly thrown away in a lidded dustbin. A very common barbecue-related problem seen by PDSA vets is pets that have eaten corn on the cob cores. These can cause a serious blockage and have to be surgically removed.

• Keep an eye on the fuel - lighter fluid contains hydrocarbons (derived from crude oil), which can prove fatal if ingested. So keep it well out of reach.

• Watch what you drink – make sure that glasses and drinks are not within reach of thirsty pets. Alcohol can be particularly hazardous for pets as are glass bottles or cups which can be easily knocked over and smashed – so plastic cups are a much better option.

Related Articles:

Things To Look Out For When Buying Pet Insurance

Related Products:

Pet Insurance|  Low Cost Pet Insurance