As the evenings become lighter and the weather gets warmer, we eagerly anticipate spending more time outdoors and relishing in the delights of summer. Our pets are no exception, as they also seem excited about this season.
However, summer also brings a multitude of potential hazards for our pets. Nonetheless, if you educate yourself about these dangers and how to manage them, you can guarantee the safety of all involved throughout the summer.
Heatstroke
During the scorching summer days, dehydration and heatstroke are significant dangers to our furry friends. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your pets always have access to clean and fresh water, regardless of the season. To prepare for walks or extended journeys, carry portable water bowls, and pack them for vacations or long car trips.
Breeds with short noses, such as bulldogs, pugs, and overweight animals, and those with thick coats, such as Persian cats, are more vulnerable to heat stress. Watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive fatigue, reduced urination, dry gums, refusal to eat, sunken eyes, and decreased skin elasticity.
Don't worry if your dog is panting; it's how they regulate their body temperature. The hotter they are, the more they'll pant. In addition, fans, ice packs, frozen treats, ice cubes, and sprinklers can aid in cooling your pet. Both your children and dogs will enjoy these activities.
Bee and wasp stings
Cats and dogs investigate their surroundings using their mouths, noses, and paws, making these body parts the most frequent targets for bee and wasp stings. Dogs may attempt to eat bees and wasps, while cats may enjoy chasing them, putting them at risk of getting stung.
Fortunately, most pets only experience mild symptoms from bee and wasp stings. However, in some cases, they may suffer from severe, even life-threatening reactions. In case your pet shows signs of an anaphylactic reaction, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic. They may advise you to bring your pet in for immediate treatment.
If the reaction is severe, hospitalisation may be necessary to ensure that their vital signs are monitored closely by the veterinary team.
Summer barbecues
Barbecues are a favourite pastime for many, including our beloved pets, who get to enjoy the outdoors. However, consuming certain foods not only causes them to gain weight but can also harm their health.
Foods such as onions, garlic, chocolate, and raisins can be toxic to dogs when consumed in significant amounts and should be avoided. It's also best to keep onions and garlic away from cats as well. It's vital to keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as they can cause various adverse effects such as intoxication and comas. Altering your pet's diet, even for a single meal, can cause severe digestive issues in both dogs and cats.
Fertilisers and pesticides
The chemicals that enhance the appearance of your garden or backyard can pose a health risk to your pets. For example, many weed killers and pest-control products can be toxic. Some of these chemicals appeal to our pets; however, they can yield some adverse outcomes.
We want to ensure our furry friends are healthy and happy, so keeping them away from fertilizers is essential. Ingesting these products can cause some tummy troubles, such as vomiting and diarrhoea in mild cases, and in more severe cases, it may even lead to bloody vomiting and diarrhoea.
Extra Fur
During the warmer months, keeping your furry friend well-groomed is essential. Regular brushing will help remove any excess fur and reduce the thickness of their hair.
Some pets, especially those with fair skin under their fur, are more susceptible to sunburn, such as white dogs and cats, pets with fine, thin hair, and hairless breeds. Regardless of how much fur they have, all pets are vulnerable in areas with little or no fur, including their ears, nose, and tummy. To protect your pet, you can use pet-friendly sunblock.
Hot pavements
Your pet's paws are just as sensitive as the soles of our feet, so protecting them from hot pavements during the warmer months is essential. If the surface is too hot for you to touch comfortably, it's too hot for your pet to walk on. To test the surface's temperature, try the five-second rule; if you can rest the back of your hand on the surface for five seconds or more, it should be safe for your pet to walk on. However, if it's too hot for your hand, it's best to avoid the surface to prevent your dog's paws from getting burnt.
Fleas, ticks, and parasites
During warm weather, parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can be a real nuisance to your pets. They can also spread diseases like Lyme and leptospirosis or carry tapeworms and lungworms. That's why it's essential to take a comprehensive approach to keep your pet parasite-free. You can talk to your vet about the best prevention methods for your area and stay vigilant.
Stay prepared and enjoy the summer!
Keep a first aid kit handy at home or on the go. Specific first aid kits are available for dogs and cats, so you can always be ready for unexpected situations. With proper preparation for potential summer hazards, you and your furry friend can kick back, have a blast, and thoroughly savour the joys of summertime!