Prepare Your Pet for the Dog Days of Summer

June 21st marks the official first day of summer. With summer quickly approaching, you are starting to plan your vacation, the kids are looking forward to the last day of school, and it's time to head for the pool. But what about your pets? Have you prepared them for the change in season? Well here are a few pointers to help you to be a responsible pet owner this summer.

Use pet sunscreen.

A little SPF 15 can go a long way when it comes to your pets. If they have light-colored skin, very little fur or a pink nose, these are indications that sunscreen is in order. There are sunscreens made especially for your furry baby. Just type "pet sunscreen" in your search engine and you are on your way. However any SPF 15 sensitive skin sunscreen can safely be used on your pet as well.

If possible, walk your pet in the early morning or late in the evening.

Have you ever walked on asphalt, without your shoes on, in the summer? The sun can make asphalt pavement feel like you are walking on hot coals. So, imagine what it feels like on your pet's paws. You can prevent heat blistered pads by exercising your pet during the early morning or late evening hours.

Of course you don't want to forget the obvious reminders:

* Never leave your pet unattended in a hot car.
* Always supervise your pet in the pool.
* When outdoors, make sure your pet has lots of cool water and a shady spot to retire to.

Despite your endeavors, your pet may suffer a heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke in pets include:

-Unusually rapid breathing or panting
-Vomiting or diarrhea
-A body temperature of 105 or above
-A dry tongue, nose, or gums

What should you do if you see your pet exhibit these heat stroke symptoms?

-Give your pet ice cubes to lick on, since at this point cold water will do more harm than good. Cold water should not be given because it may cause stomach problems and worsen dehydration.

-Immerse your pet in cold water or spray cool water on him. Make sure the water is coming in contact with the skin, not just the fur coat. This will help to safely lower your pet's body temperature.

-Get your pet to the veterinary office ASAP. Heat strokes are very serious, since they can cause your pet's organs to start shutting down. In extreme cases heat strokes can even cause death.

Well, now that you have done your part as a responsible pet owner to prepare your pet for the summer heat you are all done....right? Why not do your part by passing these tips on to fellow pet owners and help them get on the healthy pet bandwagon.