Summer Dangers for Pets
Summer is upon us and it presents it's own dangers to our pets. Although this list is not exhaustive, here are some of the more common dangers:
Heat/Sun: Not just heat stroke, but also sunburn, and foot pad burns are common in the summer. What can you do, you ask? Make sure your pets have plenty of shade and water if they must be outside. Never leave a pet in a closed car. Minimize time in the sun for light skinned and thin coated pets. Check the pavement temperature by putting your palm down on it for 5 seconds.
Symptoms of heat stroke include excessive panting and/or drooling, bright red tongue, pale gums, difficulty breathing, irregular or fast heart rate, uncoordinated and/or weak movements, vomiting, diarrhea, shock, coma and sudden cardiac arrest. If you suspect heat stroke, remove your pet to a cooler area and douse him or her in cool, not ice cold water. Use a rectal thermometer and check the temperature every 5 minutes. Once the temperature reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit, dry your pet and take him at once to a vet. Even if he seems to be recovering, there can be complications that are not apparent.
Pests : Fleas and ticks are in full force in the summer. Also, there are stinging and biting insects. If you suspect your pet has been bitten or stung, resulting in mild swelling or mild hives call your vet to see if there is something you can try at home. More serious reactions such as severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or collapse require immediate veterinary attention.
Food: Backyard barbecues are fun for all, but keep in mind that fatty foods and spicy foods could make your pet seriously ill. Bones, corn cobs, pits and nuts can cause life threatening obstructions. Toxic foods, such as grapes, raisins, avocados, and chocolate should be avoided. To ensure your pet's health and safety, all food and beverages, especially those that contain alcohol, should be kept well out of your pet's reach. Make sure guests are aware of these dangers also, so they do not mistakenly make your pet ill by giving them a "treat".
Pools and other bodies of water: Not all dogs can swim and some pools are difficult if not impossible for a dog to get out of. Make sure access to the pool is blocked or invest in an alarm that will sound if anyone enters the pool.
Another little known danger is water intoxication. This happens when a pet drinks an excessive amount of water (usually while spending the day at a lake or river). Symptoms include vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, glazed eyes, difficulty breathing, bloating, lethargy, seizures, coma and death. Water intoxication is life threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Even though this list is not exhaustive, you now know some of the dangers summer presents to our pets and you can take steps to avoid them to insure everyone one has a happy and safe summer.
