May the Fourth be with you,
keeping your pet happy and safe for the summer holiday
We have finally achieved summerdom! I feel we need to take a moment to breathe deeply, smile big, and run like a child in the yard. With the wonderfulness of summer comes barbeques, picnics, fireworks, bonfires, and vacations. Just typing these brings on the smell of delicious food, the feel of sun on my face, and the sound of laughter. Summer is great! While we look on summer activities with unbridled joy; our pets may or may not share our feelings and we need to keep their safety in mind while we plan upcoming activities.
Summer barbeques and picnics are the staple of the season. The most important thing to remember is… do not treat the dog. Fatty foods such as ribs, hot dogs, chicken skins, and mayonnaise covered salads are dangerous to their systems. Also, toppings such as onions, garlic, certain nuts, oils, and xylitol (sugar substitute) can cause anemia or kidney troubles. Give your dog their meal ahead of time or give them a special toy that you can hide treats in for them to work out on their own. This will help to avoid begging or stealing of any delectables. Let your guests know ahead of time not to feed the four legged critters as well.
Fireworks and bonfires are the some of the best ways to spend a summer evening. Some pets are afraid of the loud noises associated with fireworks. For these fur babies keep them in a quiet area of the house with a radio or TV on and some special toys, blankets, or pillows. During bonfires try and keep your dogs and cats away from the flames and heat. They can singe their fur and whiskers or walk on embers and burn their pads. If your dog is crazy about chasing sticks then keep an extra close eye on them to make sure they do not try to rescue a stray stick of theirs from the burning pile.
Parties and people coming and going out of the house also pose a risk for indoor animals to dart out. If the strangers in the house make them nervous or if they get courageous and try for a great escape they can run outside and get scared, lost, or worse… get hit by a car. Try to keep your pets in an area of the house where they are not in danger of getting outside or put them in a closed room or kennel where they can relax if needed. Please keep their collars and tags on at all times and consider getting them microchipped so if they do get away from you they can get scanned and be returned to you. You know your pet and their fears; protect them from the dangers that our fun can create.
The last thing to consider in this time of year is the risk of heat stroke. Dogs and cats can easily overheat in this warm, humid weather. Monitor their time outside and length of play. Make sure they have plenty of water at all times and shaded areas to rest in. If you notice extreme lethargy, vomiting, heavy panting, excessive drooling, or tremors please call or go to your veterinarian. You can place a cool, wet towel over them while on the way to the vet. Please do not put them in an ice bath as this may induce shock and putting too much isopropyl alcohol on the foot pads can make them ill if they were to lick it off. Dogs that are overweight, have short noses, or are normally fairly inactive but go outside for a party or event are at the greatest risk for heat stroke, however, it can happen to any animal.
Summer really is a fantastic time of year for people and pets alike. With just a few precautions and fore thought you can make it safe and enjoyable for all.
Stay tuned for our next blog that will cover traveling with your pets, boarding them, or having pet sitters come to keep an eye on them.
