07/08/2024
Summer means fun and freedom for little paws,
but keep an eye out for their safety, too!
Hot Beach sands and asphalt:
Protect pawpads from burning! Asphalt can reach 125 degrees Farenheit on a 77 degree day!
If the asphalt is hot, have pets walk on the grass or keep that walk short.
Also, remember that shorter breeds of dogs will heat up quicker closer to asphalt or hot sand, putting them at greater risk of Heatstroke!
Heatstroke!
Early symptoms of heatstroke include difficulty breathing, excessive panting, drooling, mild weakness or stupor.
Severe symptoms can include collapsing, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea and a body temperature of over 104 degrees.
If you see symptoms of heatstroke immediately contact our office or your nearest emergency room.
Flat-faced breeds are even more prone to heatstroke. [Persian cats, Pugs and Bulldogs for example]
Fireworks and Bonfire Burn Injuries:
Be extremely cautious about having pets around fireworks! Better yet, keep them safe at home if fireworks are to be used.
First of all, many pets are afraid of loud noises and this is the time of year that most pets are lost as a result.
But also, exposure to fireworks can result in burns or trauma, or exposure to toxic chemicals found in fireworks.
A quiet, escape-proof, enclosed area of your home is best. Your pet will thank you.
Party Food Dangers:
Beware of human treats!
Even a small amount of human food can cause serious digestive issues resulting in diarrhea, vomiting or even a very serious illness called pancreatitis.
Of course, there are also foods that are poisonous to pets and should be avoided from People Food not suitable for Pets (ASPCA):
Avocado, Chocolate, Coffee and other caffeinated items, Citrus,
Coconut & Coconut Oil, Grapes & Raisins, Nuts, Dairy products,
Onions, Garlic, Bones, Raw or Undercooked meat or eggs,
Salt/Salty snacks, Xylitol artificial sweetener, and Yeast dough.
And keep all alcoholic beverages or foods containing alcohol away from pets.
Car Ride Dangers:
If your critter loves the car ride, make sure they are secure in a crate or wearing a seatbelt harness. Sticking their heads out of a moving car is not advised. Debris can hit them, they can fall out of a window or the bed of a truck, and stopping short can cause major injuries.
And of course, never, ever leave a pet in a hot car. Cars heat up quickly, even on a mild day, and can cause heatstroke and death in a very short period of time.
Identification
Vacations, walks, and running off that extra energy!
Make sure your pet's identification is on and up to date with your contact information in case they get separated from you. A microchip, along with an imprinted tag, is the best combination to bring back a missing pet.
Fleas, Ticks & Mosquitos:
Of course, we need to mention this. It is best to keep pets on a flea, tick, and heartworm preventative all year round, but if your pet's preventative has lapsed, make sure to get them back on it.
Heartworm Disease in dogs and cats is caused by mosquitos. Fleas & ticks cause many diseases, as well as anemia, itchy skin irritations, and even tapeworms!
When you're picking a product though, make sure it is appropriate for your pet. Call our office for more information on what product is safe and effective for your pet - (972) 495-3083.
Other Quick Items:
-Provide plenty of fresh, clean water at all times.
-Be careful they don't over-exercise when it's extremely hot.
-Always make sure outdoor pets have shaded areas available.
-Do not leave pets unattended around pools. Not everyone can swim.
Additional Summer Pet Safety Information:
Pet Poison Helpline Link (888) 426-4435
