Summer is the best time to have fun with your dog. With the good weather you can exercise your dog in the woods, take your dog to the beach, or just play ball in the back yard....There are still a few things to remember to keep your dog healthy and safe:
Watch out for insect bites. A single bite can cause hives, an allergic reaction, facial swelling and more.
Make sure your dog is safe around water. Only some dogs are good swimmers. Many need flotation devices or life jackets. Even more importantly, many dogs can swim fine but do not know how to get out of the pool or back onto a boat. Do not leave your dog unattended.
Swimming in backyard pools: never leave your dog unattended in the backyard with an in ground pool. Most dogs are eager to jump in, but may not figure out how to get out. Also, be careful that your dog does not drink out of the swimming pool since the pool chemicals are toxic to your dog.
Car Travel: Many dogs get motion sickness traveling in the car. Fortunately we have "Cerenia" travel packs to help prevent motion sickness. Always be very very very careful when traveling in the car to NEVER leave your dog unattended. A car can heat up past 100 degrees in minutes and this heat is lethal.
| Watch out for the heat. The short nosed (brachyocephalic) dogs are especially susceptible. These dogs have a more restricted airway and cannot cool off easily by panting. Make sure if you have a pug, bulldog, or other type of shortnosed dog, that you have air conditioning or fans inside, and only take the dog our for walks at dusk and dawn rather than in the middle of the day.
Watch out for fireworks and thunderstorms. Dogs become especially anxious with loud sudden noises. If your dog is afraid it is best to get some mild tranquilizers to calm him or her.
Travel Plans: Make sure you have a plan for your pooch before travel. These days campgrounds and hotels often welcome pets. If you are having a friend or relative watch your pet make sure all arrangements are finalized in advance. Similarly, boarding reservations need to be made well in advance, and all veterinary services and vaccinations need to be up to date. Its a good idea to have current rabies certificates and microchip identification papers available.
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