Summer Perils for Pets and How to Avoid Them
As the warm rays of summer fill our days with sunshine and outdoor adventures, it's important to remember that our furry friends also feel the effects of the heat. While summer can be a delightful season for pets, it also brings certain risks that owners need to be aware of. Here at Broadway Vets, we care deeply about the well-being of your pets. In this blog, we'll highlight some common summer perils for pets and provide tips on how to avoid them, ensuring your pet enjoys a safe and happy summer.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is one of the most serious dangers pets face during the summer months. Unlike humans, dogs and cats cannot cool down by sweating. Instead, they rely on panting and external cooling methods, which can be insufficient in extreme heat.
Signs of Heatstroke:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Red or pale gums
- Rapid heart rate
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Weakness or collapse
Prevention Tips:
- Never leave pets in cars: Even with windows slightly open, the temperature inside a car can soar quickly, posing a fatal risk.
- Provide plenty of water: Ensure your pet always has access to fresh water, both indoors and outdoors.
- Create shady spots: If your pet spends a lot of time outside, ensure there are shaded areas for them to rest.
- Limit exercise: Avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or late evening walks are best.
Sunburn
Just like humans, pets can suffer from sunburn, particularly those with light-coloured fur or exposed skin. Sunburn can lead to pain, peeling, and even skin cancer.
Prevention Tips:
- Use pet-safe sunscreen: Apply a pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas such as the nose, ears, and belly. Avoid products meant for humans as they may contain harmful ingredients.
- Seek shade: Encourage your pet to stay in shaded areas, especially during peak sun hours between 10 am and 4 pm.
Parasites
Summer brings an increase in fleas, ticks, and other parasites. These pests can cause a range of health issues, from skin irritation to serious diseases like Lyme disease.
Prevention Tips:
- Regular treatments: Keep up with regular flea and tick treatments as prescribed by your vet.
- Check for ticks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your pet for ticks, especially around the ears, neck, and paws.
- Maintain the yard: Keep your lawn mowed and garden tidy to reduce the habitat for fleas and ticks.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a common issue during the hot summer months. It's crucial to ensure your pet stays hydrated to avoid serious health problems.
Signs of Dehydration:
- Lethargy
- Dry gums and nose
- Sunken eyes
- Loss of skin elasticity
Prevention Tips:
- Hydration stations: Place water bowls in multiple locations around your home and garden.
- Ice treats: Provide ice cubes or frozen pet-safe treats to encourage fluid intake.
- Wet food: Consider adding wet food to your pet's diet to increase their water intake.
Toxic Plants and Chemicals
Summer gardens are often filled with vibrant plants, some of which can be toxic to pets. Additionally, chemicals such as pesticides and fertilisers can pose a risk if ingested.
Prevention Tips:
- Identify toxic plants: Familiarise yourself with plants that are toxic to pets and avoid planting them in your garden. Common toxic plants include lilies, azaleas, and oleanders.
- Secure chemicals: Store pesticides, fertilisers, and other chemicals out of reach of pets.
- Read labels: Always read labels on garden products to ensure they are safe for use around pets.
Water Safety
Whether it's a trip to the beach, lake, or a pool in the garden, water safety is crucial for pets. Not all pets are natural swimmers, and accidents can happen quickly.
Prevention Tips:
- Supervise: Always supervise your pet around water. Never assume they can swim.
- Provide flotation devices: Use a pet flotation device for added safety, especially in open water.
- Rinse after swimming: Rinse your pet with fresh water after swimming to remove chlorine or salt, which can irritate their skin.
Conclusion
Summer is a fantastic time to create lasting memories with your pets, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential hazards. By taking simple precautions, you can ensure your pet enjoys the season safely. If you have any concerns or need advice, don’t hesitate to contact us at Broadway. Our team is here to help keep your pets happy and healthy all year round.
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