Summer Hazards!
July 26, 2024
Summer is upon us, hopefully bringing with it lots of long, sunny days perfect for outdoor adventures. However, the season also comes with potential hazards for our beloved pets. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind to make this summer safe and enjoyable for everyone.
1. Heatstroke: A Serious Risk
Just like us, pets can suffer from heatstroke. Dogs and cats can’t cool themselves as efficiently as humans, making them more susceptible to overheating. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. To prevent this:
Never leave pets in a parked car: Even with the windows cracked open, temperatures inside a car can soar dangerously high in minutes.
Provide plenty of fresh water: Make sure your pets stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Create cool spaces: Ensure there are shaded or air-conditioned areas where your pets can escape the heat.
In extreme heat, do not walk your pet in the middle of the day, however much they give you ‘that look’.
2. Paw Protection
Hot pavement can burn your pet’s paw pads. Before taking your dog for a walk, test the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Opt for early morning or late evening walks when the ground is cooler and choose a shaded route with plenty of grass underfoot.
3. Beware of Parasites
Summer is peak season for fleas, and ticks, which can cause significant health issues for your pets.
Use preventative treatments: Regularly apply flea and tick preventatives according to the product instructions.
Regular checks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your pet’s fur for ticks and other pests. If you do find a tick, ensure it is removed correctly using a tick remover tool. Watch this video to find out how. You can find out more about ticks on our website.
4. Sunburn Isn’t Just for Humans
Pets, especially those with short or light-colored fur, can get sunburned. Protect your pet by applying pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose, ears, and belly. Limit their sun exposure, particularly during peak hours.
5. Water Safety
Many dogs love swimming, but it’s important to ensure their safety around water:
Supervise swimming: Never leave your pet unsupervised around pools, lakes, or the sea.
Life vests: Consider a pet life vest for added safety in strong water currents, especially if your pet isn’t a strong swimmer.
Rinse after swimming: Always rinse off your pet after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater that can irritate their skin.
Algae Blooms: Algae are naturally found in inland waters, however, when conditions are warm it is ideal for growth, and an algal bloom can occur which releases toxins that can be fatal to wildlife and pets. During a bloom, the water becomes cloudy and may look green, blue-green or greenish-brown. Scums can form when bloom forming species rise to the surface – this can look like paint, mousse or small clumps. If the water does not look clear, it is safest to keep yourself and your pets out. Visit the government website for further information.
6. Grass Seeds
Grass seeds, particularly those from longer weedy grasses, are small, arrow-shaped seeds that can easily become lodged in your pet’s fur, skin, ears, eyes, nose, and even paws. Their shape allows them to move in only one direction, making them particularly dangerous as they can burrow deeper into your pet’s body over time.
Signs to look out for are Persistent licking or chewing of paws/legs, Head shaking or scratching at ears, sore areas on the skin that may have discharge, limping, persistent sneezing or coughing.
Find out more on our website.
7. Travel Safely
If you’re planning a summer road trip, make sure your pet is secured in the car. Use a pet seat belt, carrier, or crate to keep them safe and ensure they have shade. Make regular stops for bathroom breaks, water, and a bit of exercise.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your pet stays healthy, happy, and safe throughout the summer.
Wishing you and your pets a fantastic summer!
