Avoiding Common Summer Dangers for Pets

Summer is welcomed by pets as well as their owners but keep in mind that you need to know how to avoid common summer dangers where your pets are concerned.

There are many dangers despite the enthusiasm that comes with warm weather.

Here are some common summer dangers for pets that can be encountered as you and your pet strike out on sunny days to explore to enjoy.

Heat

The summer heat is at the top of the list when it comes to dangers for your pet.

This really applies to dogs as cats tend to be more content at home. But, if your cat tends to roam, then you have to be aware of the dangers of heat where they are concerned.

High temperatures are very dangerous and can cause heatstroke for both cats and dogs but especially for dogs.

Dogs seem to be the ones that want to tag along with you.

Never take your dog in a car and leave him. His body temperature runs at 102 degrees while the heat inside a car can build up to 133 degrees within 30 minutes of leaving him there.

This could lead to the death of your dog. On really hot days your dog is better left at home.

Never take your dog out during the hottest part of the day for exercise.

If you want to exercise your dog take him out early in the morning or late in the evening. Even at this time, find a shaded trail to walk your dog.

Bring lots of cool water and some ice cubes with you to keep your dog hydrated.

Don’t let your dog walk on the pavement.

This could cause big problems for the pads of his feet in the form of burns and blisters.

Swimming

A dog is not born with the knowledge of knowing how to swim, it is a learned action the same as humans.

Don’t assume that your dog can swim.

Use a floating device to help him float when you introduce him to water especially in a pool and while teaching a dog to swim.

A dog can fall into a pool and drown the same as a child, so always be cautious around the water until you’re sure your dog can handle it.

Other than not knowing how to swim, one of the biggest problems with pools is once your dog enters he may not know how to get back out.

If you’re not around to help him he will drown from the exhaustion of swimming.

And, if you have a pool, you should place a ramp in easy reach of your dog so that he can get out.

Don’t trust ladders as some dogs don’t take to them very well.

If you’re taking your dog on a boat be sure there is a doggie life jacket available for him.

Never attach a leash to your dog unless you’re at the other end of it if you’re on the water, which means don’t tie your dog to the railing of the boat and assume he is safe.

Chemicals

When spring makes its appearance so do the chemicals that get rid of weeds and pests around people’s yards.

Dogs don’t much care about what they eat at times and when they eat grass they ingest the chemicals that have been used on the lawn such as weed killers.

Weed killers are just one of the poisons that can be used over the summer on lawns and gardens and can become a very real danger to your pet.

Storage and proper use of these chemicals is a must during hot summer days.

Anti-freeze and windshield washers are other dangerous chemicals that should be kept out of reach.

All of these can make your pet very sick.

Learn how to use these chemicals so that you can remove the danger from your pets.

Fleas and Other Crawlies

Fleas and ticks can become very unwelcome passengers on your pet.

Mosquitoes can be more dangerous than fleas by causing heartworms in your pet. Thankfully, there are things you can do to try and eliminate both.

Fleas can be totally controlled by some of the products that are on today’s market.

It’s easy to use and only needs to be applied once a month.

Mosquitoes can be cut down if not eliminated by ensuring that you have no stagnant water lying about your property. Stagnant water gives mosquitoes the perfect place to breed.

Citronella is always good to keep mosquitoes away and you can spray this on your dog when mixed with water or add a few drops to his collar.

Avon Skin So Soft is another product that helps keep mosquitoes away. All of these insects pose a danger to your pet.

Dog Hot Spot Issues

While relishing the summer sun, another common danger tends to surface, typically known as a “dog hot spot.”

This term describes an area of skin inflammation and infection. The infection can be superficial or deep.

One of the significant causes of dog hot spots is a condition where your dog constantly licks or chews a particular area of their skin, creating a moist environment perfect for the growth of bacteria.

Particularly during the summer, dogs can be more prone to this condition.

To prevent a dog hot spot from forming, ensure your dog is free of parasitic pests and encourage regular grooming habits.

If your dog has already developed a hot spot, seek immediate help from a vet to prevent severe infection or complications.

It’s an easily preventable issue that, if not addressed, can cause severe discomfort for your furry friend in the summer months.

Dangers Around Your Home

If you have a backyard where you let your pet roam and you think it is a safe place, you better take a second look.

A little home maintenance can keep your pet very safe and give you peace of mind.

The dangers outside your fence are many when it pertains to your pet.

Walk around the yard and check your fence for openings that may be used for your dog to escape.

Another form of danger in the spring and summer months is one tends to get enthused about fixing up the property.

If you use paint thinners, turpentine, kerosene, and wood strippers, the fumes alone can make your dog sick.

It is best to leave your dog inside if you have intentions of using any of these products.

Responsibilities Renewed

Just as spring renews people, it also should renew a few lessons for your family.

This comes in the form of making sure the gate is latched as you go in and out.

It won’t take long for your pet to start exploring if a gate is left wide open.

Once outside that gate, your dog can be exposed to many dangers such as traffic, disease, and getting lost.

Always make sure your dog has an identification tag on it.

Getting lost can happen very easily but you can prevent this from happening with just a little effort.

Consider posting a sign stating that the gate has to be locked at all times.

Summertime is a time for joy and renewed enthusiasm after the long winter.

Don’t let this summer bring tragedy when it comes to your pet.

It takes so little time to get informed about summer dangers for pets. However, it can be a lifesaving lesson if you can prevent them.