The summer months are a great time to spend outside; however, the warm temperatures can be hazardous to your pet’s health. According to Sandra Sawchuk, DVM, at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, “In the summer, we see more skin and ear infections and an increase in injuries overall.” This is why protecting your pets during the summer is especially important.
Follow these 10 helpful tips on keeping your pet safe this summer:
• Skin cancer is common among dogs and cats. Make sure apply a pet sunblock to the least hair covered areas of your pet ever 3 to 4 hours. Concentrate on their bellies, ears, and noses.
• Keep their coats long and well-brushed. If the coat is brushed, not matted, it helps regulate their body temperature.
• Keep dogs inside when it is especially humid outside, this is usually between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm.
• Even if the windows are cracked, you should never leave your dog in the car. On a hot day, this can be extremely dangerous.
• Use an all-in-one pet-friendly tick, flea, fly, and mosquito repellent that you can get at your local pet supply store.
• Always keep your home at a comfortable temperature. Remember, if it’s too warm for you, it’s too warm for your pet.
• Don’t give your pet any BBQ leftovers. Fatty leftovers can give them severe abdominal pain, otherwise known as pancreatitis.
• Provide your pet with appropriate shade and water when they are outside with you.
• Keep an eye on your pet and know the signs of heat stroke: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness.
• Avoid burning your pet’s foot pads on sidewalks, patios, or streets by testing surfaces. Place your hand on the surface for 30 seconds before allowing pet to walk on them.
If you are interested in more pet safety tips—you can click here. Remember, during the months of May and June we have been running a fundraising campaign with the Humane Society of Waupaca County. All you have to do is go to Facebook and “Like” Community Insurance & Associates. Every new “Like” we receive will equal $1 donated to the Humane Society of Waupaca County. PLEASE click HERE and “Like” us on Facebook. You can also learn more about our non-profit community partnerships here.