8 Summer Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats

Our pets are like family members to most of us and we want to protect them. In my article, "8 Winter Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats," I went over some important basic precautions for winter. We'll look at the ones for summer as follows:

Summer Pet Safety Tip #1: Protection from Heat in Cars

Do I really need to mention this? This even happens even with children far too frequently, so it can't be talked about often enough. Please use common sense and take your pets with you, or make sure that adequate ventilation exists when and where appropriate. Bear in mind that cars can heat up quickly, even with the windows partially open.

Summer Pet Safety Tip #2: Proper Outdoor Housing and Water

If dogs or cats are kept outdoors, please keep them in a shaded area with adequate water. Again, this should be common sense, but it is worth talking about. Make certain pets can't get tangled up with chains that might endanger them or restrict their movement. Heat strokes and other tragic results can be prevented by awareness.

Summer Pet Safety Tip #3: Protection from Over-Exertion

Over-exertion resulting in problems could occur when jogging or engaging in other activities. The Ottawa Humane Society informs us, "On hotter days, monitor your pets' activity and be careful to not over-exert them. Watch for signs of heat stress, excessive panting, disorientation, staring or anxious expression and weakness. Bring your pet to a cool area, gradually lower your pets temperature by immersing his/her paws in cold water or hosing him/her down and call your veterinarian immediately."

Summer Pet Safety Tip #4: Hot Asphalt and Feet Protection

The Ottawa Humane Society also relates, "In summer, asphalt can burn your pet's paws - keep to the sidewalk or grass."

Summer Pet Safety Tip #5: Beach and Water Safety

The American Kennel Club provides this valuable information:

"Do not let your dog drink seawater; the salt will make him sick. Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog's coat, so rinse him off at the end of the day.

Most dogs enjoy swimming, but some cannot swim, and others may hate the water. Be conscious of your dog's preferences and skills before trying to make him swim.

If you're swimming for the first time with your dog, start in shallow water and coax him in by calling his name. Encourage him with toys or treats. Or, let him follow another experienced dog he is friendly with.

Never throw your dog into the water.

If your dog begins to paddle with his front legs, lift his hind legs and help him float. He should quickly catch on and keep his back end up.

Don't let your dog overdo it; swimming is very hard work and he may tire quickly.

If swimming at the ocean, be careful of strong tides.

If you have your own pool, make sure your dog knows where the stairs or ladder are located. Be sure that pool covers are firmly in place; dogs have been known to slip in under openings in the covers and drown.

Never leave your dog unattended in water."

Summer Pet Safety Tip #6: Safety in Travel

The American Kennel Club continues:

"For air travel, put icepacks or an ice blanket in the dog's crate. (Two-liter soft drink bottles filled with water and frozen work well.) Provide a container of fresh water, as well as a container of frozen water that will thaw over the course of the trip.

By Car - Keep your dog cool in the car by putting icepacks in his crate. Make sure the crate is well ventilated. Put a sunshade on your car windows.

Bring along fresh water and a bowl, and a tarp or tent so you can set up a shady spot when you stop. Keep a spray bottle filled with water to spritz on your dog to cool him down.

By RV - A dog's safety should not depend on the air conditioning and generator systems in an RV or motor home. These devices can malfunction, with tragic results."

Summer Pet Safety Tip #7: Parasite Prevention

American Red Cross says, "Check with your vet to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication. Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by a bite from an infected mosquito, can be fatal if not treated. Both dogs and cats are at increased risk of contracting heartworm during the summer."

Summer Pet Safety Tip #8: Plan Ahead for Summer Vacations

If you're not taking your dog or cat with you, arrange for the proper care with people you know and trust or with facilities that are reputable. This will protect your pet from careless or irresponsible people and bring about much peace of mind.

Sources:

Ottawa Humane Society: ottawahumane.ca

American Kennel Club: akc.org

American Red Cross in Greater New York: nyredcross.org