Summer May be Hazardous to Your Pet
Summertime can be dangerous to your pet. There are certain things that you can do to keep your pet from harm.
It is not advisable to walk your dog outdoors in the heat of the day, especially between ll a.m. and 3 p.m. Your dog may be susceptible to heat stroke. At the same time, guide your dog to walk on the safest walking surface, such as dirt paths, grass, or concrete surfaces. It is also important to keep your dog’s paws off asphalt. Retention of heat in the tar base of asphalt can melt and stick to the pads of your dog’s feet. causing burns. In the event your dog happens to inadvertently walk through asphalt, you are advised to check its paws as soon as you get home. If you notice any tar, you can remove it with petroleum jelly, after which your dog’s pads should be thoroughly washed with mild, soapy water and dried with a towel. Prior to walking your dog, “palm-test” the sidewalk. If the concrete is too hot to your touch, keep out of that area.
Dogs and cats with white coats and pink noses and footpads are particularly susceptible to sunburns that may lead to skin cancer. Dogs with dark pigmentation are generally not as easily affected.
If you dog’s idea of a perfect summer day includes getting in the water, you should first fit him with a canine life preserver. Water activities include your backyard pool, lake and rivers. The life preserver should be fitted high on its chest to support his front limbs to make sure that its head does not go down into the water. See that your dog does not lap up too much water. Drinking excess water can cause an imbalance in the sodium level of your dog and the possibility of toxicity that can cause it to wobble, shake and have tremors, all of which are treated by a vet. One alternative is to provide a kiddie pool for your dog, deep enough to cover its legs, but not its chest.
Your dog may love to ride in the car with you, in which case, do not leave it in your car, for the reason that it can die from too much heat. Do not suppose that if you leave the windows open a bit that your dog can be safe. Even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside the car can quickly rise above the outdoor temperature.
In conclusion, be aware that your pet can be vulnerable to problems about which you may not be aware. If you abide by the rules of safety, your pet can be kept out of danger.
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