Ten Dangers to Your Dog During the Summer
Summer opens up a lot of things for dog owners to do. However, responsible dog owners should be aware of the dangers that the season can bring to their pets.
1. Sunburn
Dogs can get sunburned, just like people. Light-colored dogs and dogs with thin fur are at high risk of sunburn. If your dog likes to stay outside, make sure that you give them a healthy application of sunscreen. If you can’t find sunscreen that’s formulated for dogs, you can opt to use one that is formulated for babies.
2. Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs if your pet’s body temperature gets too high. Keep an eye out for this condition if your dog is hyperactive in the heat. Make sure that they’ve got some shade to play in if they want to stay outside. Needless to say, you must also avoid leaving your dog in the car. A cracked window will not provide enough ventilation to cool the car’s interior.
3. Barbecues
Dogs are man’s best friend, but even a well-trained dog may go after unattended food. Food on the barbecue, for example, might look particularly appetizing to a hungry dog. Retrieving food from a dog can be an incredible task, especially if they think that you’re trying to play with them. Even after you’re done cooking, a dog might decide that any meat on the barbecue is worth going after, which is dangerous if you used lighter fluid. It is generally best to keep dogs away from barbecues, unless you keep them on a short leash.
4. Chlorine
While swimming can be both fun and healthy for the dog, you need to make sure that you wash your dog after it goes in the pool. Chlorine is a skin irritant and can upset their stomach. If it looks like your dog’s drinking a lot from the pool, take it out of the water.
5. Hot Streets
Patios, streets, sand, and sidewalks, can all hurt your dog’s feet. During the summer, it is recommended that you walk them early in the morning or at night, when these surfaces are cool. If you’re not sure whether it’s safe or not, press your palm against the floor for thirty seconds. If it hurts you, it will hurt your dog.
6. Dehydration
Dehydration can be easily prevented by making sure that your dog has easy access to cool water, both inside and outside your house. Wet dog food, ice cubes, and beef broth can all help keep your dog hydrated.
7. Fireworks
Fireworks are dangerous to dogs in a number ways. Many fireworks either look like or are attached to sticks, which might convince a curious dog to pick one up and play with it. Fireworks going off can startle and leave your dog anxious and afraid. It’s generally a good idea to keep your dogs away from fireworks. If they have to be in the area, keep them on a short leash.
8. Getting Lost
Taking your dog on long trips may result in many fond memories, but it can also result in them getting lost in unfamiliar territory. If your dog is off leash, make sure that someone has an eye on it at all times. Your dog should also have a collar with your contact information to maximize the odds of recovery should the worst happen.
9. Allergies
Summer is full of allergens, including flowers, fleas, and mold. These can all cause itchiness, discomfort, sneezing, and coughing. Keep an eye out for these allergens and make sure that your dog stays away from them. Consult your veterinarian and ask if you need to have antihistamines or medication on hand.
10. Parasitic Infestations
Mosquitoes, flies, ticks, and other insects can infest your home and your dog during the summer months. Your veterinarian should be able to recommend protection appropriate to your dog and your situation.
While these concerns are not exclusive to summertime, their dangerous are heightened during the season. You should also consider your dog’s behavior. If your dog likes to stay indoors, you won’t have to worry about any problems with hot sidewalks. Don’t be afraid to let your dog have fun, but it is only responsible to stay aware of what dangerous are present.
