It's Hot Out There!!!
The dog days of summer are here and, while we love to see people out enjoying these carefree days with their best friend, the increased number of pets joining us for quick trips means that awareness and vigilance are essential for protecting them from heat related injuries and death.

Help spread the word by forwarding these tips, courtesy of the Humane Society of the United States, to all your pet loving friends:

• Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they're enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool.
• Pets need exercise even when it is hot, but extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws.
• Another summertime threat is fleas and ticks. Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian.
• Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. But beware: Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them.
• Make sure your pet is always wearing a collar and identification tag. If you are separated from your pet, an ID tag may very well be his or her ticket home.
• Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.
• Avoid taking your best friends to crowded summer events such as concerts or fairs. The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets.
• Pets and pools can equal disaster. Prevent free access to pools and always supervise a pet in a pool.
• In summer heat your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and can cause death. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, which could include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue. If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower their body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over their body to gradually lower the core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet's head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get them to a veterinarian immediately.

Let's make sure everyone makes it safely through the summer heat!

 

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