Thirteen Summer Safety Tips for Fur Babies!
1. Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can rise to over 100 degrees in a matter of minutes.
2. Take your dog for walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun’s heat is less intense.
3. Avoid prolonged exposure to hot asphalt or sand, which can burn your dog’s paws.
4. Dogs that are brachycephalic (short-faced), such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Japanese Chins, and Pekingese, have an especially hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-faced dogs. Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with air-conditioning.
5. Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilized for 24 hours (or according to package instructions), and away from potentially toxic plants and flowers.
6. Fleas and ticks, and the mosquitos are more prevalent in summer, and more harmful, so make sure you use something to prevent them from harming your dog.
7. Dogs can get sunburn. Limit your dog’s exposure during the day and apply sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.
8. Don’t let your dog drink seawater.
9. Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog’s coat, so make sure to give him or her a bath after going to the beach.
10. Never leave your dog unattended in the water.
11. If your dog is outside on a hot day, make sure he has shade. Or better yet, bring him or her inside. Doghouses are not good shelter during the summer because they trap heat. A kid’s wading pool filled with fresh water is a great way for your dog to cool off.
12. If you take your dog swimming in the ocean, be careful of strong tides. If you have a pool, make sure your dog knows where the stairs or ladder are. If you use a pool cover, please make sure they’re firmly in place so your dog can’t slip underneath them.
13. Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water for your dog to drink.
Get more summer safety tips for your fur baby here!
http://www.akc.org/public_education/summer_safety.cfm
http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/pets_safe_heat_wave.html
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/hot-weather-tips
http://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/dog-health/How-to-Keep-Your-Dog-Safe-In-the-Summer
*hugs*