Keeping your dog safe and healthy this summer means keeping him cool, hydrated and away from the barbecued food.
Here are some FetchDog tips on enjoying the warm weather safely with your best friend:
-- Do not leave your dog in the car, which can turn dangerously hot in the warm weather. Getting left in the car is the most common cause of heat stroke among dogs. Dogs can’t regulate their temperature by sweating the way people do – their few sweat glands are in their foot pads.
-- Don’t leave your dog outside without access to shade and water. This is another invitation to heatstroke. Your dog’s body temperature can elevate quickly in the summer heat. He needs to stay hydrated to keep his cool.
-- Lots of dogs love water and boating, but make sure yours has a Personal Flotation Device to keep your First Mate safe.
-- Summer cookouts are a fun and tasty tradition for people, but keep your dog away from the leftovers. Greasy barbecued food and other human fare that he’s not used to really isn’t a treat and could have digestive consequences for your dog.
-- Ask your vet about the Lyme Disease incidence in your area and make your dog’s heartworm preventative is up to date. Meanwhile, learn to control parasites as you’re brushing your dog.
-- Remember that prevention really is the best medicine when it comes to dog first aid. A dog First Aid Kit will help out in health emergencies and is a worthwhile investment.
