Summer is here, temps are rising, and we are all spending more time outside and that includes with our furry best friends. Just like we take precautions in the summer with bug spray and sunscreen and drinking extra water, we should take precautions for Fido as well.
I spoke with my vet Dr. Kevin Anderson of Animal Care Clinic and here’s some things you should consider.
First up, fireworks. Many, many pets are scared of fireworks. Consider keeping them indoors. Ensure they are chipped and that their chip is registered with your current contact information. We had Hector’s chip done at our vet’s office and it didn’t bother him at all. If they are really averse to loud noises, talk to your vet about sedation. Starting to prep sooner rather than later is always a good idea and that preparation is key. It’s much easier to prevent anxiety than get it under control once it’s ramped up.
Heat stroke is a big concern for animals-especially in the south. Make sure you are keeping your pets cool and hydrated and check that they have plenty of shade and keep them from overheating. (Hector is very much an inside dog but we do take steps to keep him cool on camping trips.) Heat stroke, along with venomous snakes and heartworm, are the things Dr. Anderson cites as the biggest summer concerns faced by pets. Be aware if you are in areas where snakes are prevalent and keep an eye out. We always keep Hector on a leash while hiking and that helps keep him close to us and prevents him nosing into something he shouldn’t-like a nope rope. And heartworm prevention is a must.
While Dr. Anderson always recommends dog food as the best thing, if you are going to treat your pet at a BBQ (guilty!) then skinless, boneless grilled chicken or watermelon are okay. Hector loves watermelon. Foods to avoid? Hot dogs, hamburgers, ribs, BBQ and ice cream. And make sure you keep that trash in pup-proof containers. Don’t tell Hector about the no ice cream. (There are several companies out there that make ice cream specifically for dogs.)
Lots of our pups love pools and swimming but water safety is important for them as well. Watch your pet around any water-pools, lakes, creeks, river, oceans and make sure they don’t fall into anything from which they can’t get out. If dogs are on a boat, a life preserver is key. And don’t let them jump off a moving boat. Dr. Anderson’s best piece of advice here? Treat them like a toddler. Another water concern? If your pooch drinks water, especially stagnant, there is a risk for giardia and other water born organisms. It’s best to avoid that and to always carry some fresh water for your dog.
Heartworm and flea/tick preventatives are needed year-round in our area and Dr. Anderson prefers systemic, ones taken orally, to topical. If an animal gets wet, a topical can lose some efficacy. You do have the option to stack a collar like seresto with an oral med but should avoid topical treatments when the animal is on oral. Your vet will be able to talk through options with you. (If you’re curious we do Heartguard and Nexguard personally and have been pleased.)
Thanks Dr. Anderson for answering my questions!
What fun do you have planned for you and your pup this summer?
Need some suggestions? Here’s some dog-friendly festivals!
