It’s looking and starting to feel a lot like summertime out there. Warmer temperatures, more people outside exercising and walking dogs, participating in outdoor adventures, etc. This is a perfect time to remember some important summer safety tips for dog:
Hydration
Dehydration is a real possibility during the summer, especially if your pet is the type to run and play outside for extended periods without drinking sufficient water. Dehydration is when a dog loses the ability to replace lost fluids orally. These fluids are comprised of vital electrolytes and water.
Signs of dehydration include dry gums, loss of skin elasticity, excessive drooling. Give your active pet plenty of playtime breaks in the shade with access to fresh water.
Heat
You may think leaving your pet in a car for a few minutes is no big deal, but it can quickly lead to heat stroke in dogs. During a sunny day, your car acts like an oven, becoming much hotter inside than the outside air even. In fact, on a sunny 70-degree day, your car can heat up to over 100 degrees within minutes. If you can’t take your pet with you, then leave him or her at home during shopping trips.
Bee Stings
It is not uncommon for a dog to be stung by a bee. The reaction can vary according to your dog’s system, size and type of insect. While rare, severe “anaphylactic” reactions to bee or wasp stings do happen — and they’re bad news. In the case of an insect sting, the stinger injects toxins into the dog and triggers a massive release of histamine. If your dog has severe facial swelling, has difficulty breathing or seems disoriented or otherwise in severe distress, take him to be treated by a vet immediately.
Ticks and Pests
If not protected, your dog is at risk for heartworm, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Sand
Some dogs like eating sand at the beach. This can cause an upset stomach because the sand is irritating to the stomach. When a lot of sand is ingested, it may cause serious intestinal impaction.
Swimming
Just because dogs instinctively know how to swim, doesn’t mean they’re good swimmers. And if your dog jumps in your swimming pool or runs into the ocean or lake, he/she might not be able to get out without help and could easily drown. Make sure your dog can’t get into your swimming pool without you around.
Paws
During the summer, surfaces like asphalt or metal can get really hot! Try to keep your pet off of hot asphalt; not only can it burn paws, but it can also increase body temperature and lead to overheating. Driving with your dog in the bed of a truck can possibly be dangerous too because the hot metal can burn paws quickly.
Have a fun and safe summer with your furry family member!
MainStreet Veterinarians practices both conventional as well as alternative animal healthcare from our friendly office in Stone Mountain, GA. Offering mainly conventional veterinary medicine and surgery to also offering a wide array of alternative and holistic treatments to the veterinary community as well. Call us today to make an appointment with your beloved pet at 770-498-4620 or send us an email.
