Tips for Pet Owners

Here are important facts that cannot be ignored for any responsible owner of small animals. People can get so busy that they forget that their animals have needs that only the owner can fill. Pay attention to the helpless pet or let the beloved go to a home where someone will care for the animal as needed.

>Cats, dogs, and other small animals can suffer the heat just like humans do, such as overheating, sunburn, dehydration, and other skin problems.

>When it gets really hot outside, do not let your animal out in that poisonous sun for over a minute or two. Make sure there is shade at all times.

>Do not let your pet stand on hot concrete because the body can heat up fast and paws are very sensitive.

>Do not let the animal stay outdoors in a pen or box that is full of heat due to sitting in the sun.

>Try to have a cooler place, like a basement, fixed up for the little one when it is too hot outdoors for man or beast.

>Do not walk your animal until it is cooler in the evening, or mornings can be considered very early before the heat is unbearable.

>Do let the small animal take a few minutes to move around and drink lots of water as often as possible throughout the daytime hours.

>Ice cubes to chew on make a delightful treat. Freeze nutritional drinks in ice trays for a healthy, new pet surprise. Make sure to freshen the water bowl often as well.

>Keep the animal clean and this will keep summer skin problems at bay, especially those with thicker fur. Bathe pet with cool water when temperatures rise.

>Never shave your precious pet to the skin! Let the fur stay an inch or so long to prevent exposure to harsh elements such as the sun. Also, this can prevent overheating.

>Brush the fur of cats, dogs, and other small animals. Brush the coats often to curb shedding.Using a wet brush works well.

>Never, ever let animals around suntan lotions, insect sprays, and the like. Put these poisons out of reach like one would a child. Do not use this stuff on or around the pet either! Serious neurological problems can come about from the Deet that is an ingredient in some sprays. Diarrhea, extreme thirst, drooling, and more can happen as a result of contact with these types of products.

>No way, ever leave any animal in a parked vehicle. It can be fatal! Even though the windows may be open or the shade moves, the car can become an oven very fast and will cook the animal as if it were meat. Either leave the pet at home or put him on a leash to walk with. Do not be stupid and careless, treating the animal cruelly.

>Serious signs of harm can be overlooked unless one is on guard and alert to these symptoms. Watch for drooling, excessive thirst, higher temperature, weakness, panting, and any other unusual actions. Keep the vet's number handy for emergencies.