Heatwave, Fireworks, Thunderstorms and Other Hazards
Plan Now to Keep Your Dog Safe and Healthy This Summer
By Heidi Dahms Foster
Summer brings unique challenges for keeping our beloved dogs safe and healthy. But with a little planning, you and your dog can enjoy all the activities of the warmer season without worry.
Keeping your pet safe on warm summer days
Know the signs of overheating
It’s important to plan ahead for summer outings with your dog, so you can avoid the dangers of overheating. You should know the symptoms of overheating, which can include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, and in severe cases, weakness, lethargy and collapse. Overheated pets can vomit, become lethargic, or have seizures. If you are out in hot weather, and your dog begins to exhibit these or other signs that are out of character, move them to someplace cool and get immediate veterinary help.
It’s especially important to be aware that dogs with flat faces – called brachycephalic, – such as pugs, Pekingese and bulldogs, cannot pant effectively in heat, and can more easily suffer heatstroke. Other risk factors are dogs that are overweight, elderly, and those with health issues. It’s important to keep these dogs in controlled temperature conditions during hot weather.
Plan ahead for summer activities –
avoid hot paws!
Having your pets with you as you enjoy summer activities is enjoyable, but planning ahead is crucial. If you go hiking, running or biking, make sure your dog is in shape to handle the activity you’ve planned. Some Arizona desert communities have laws against hiking with your pet during hotter days. Be sure you know the laws in your area – violations can carry heavy fines, and your pet’s safety is paramount. Carry plenty of water with you, and realize that if your dog cannot continue, you’ll have to find a way to carry him.
It’s especially important to realize that pavement and even dirt can become uncomfortably or even dangerously hot for your dog’s paws, sometimes causing serious burns. Hot asphalt or sand can also cause your dog to quickly overheat.
Never leave your dog in a parked car
Every year, law enforcement is called to rescue pets left in a parked vehicle. It only takes a few minutes for your car to become hot enough to kill your dog, even if the windows are left slightly open. Even if you think you’re going into a store for a few minutes, time passes quickly and if you are delayed, it could mean your dog’s life. If you’re going out in the summer, it’s best to leave your dog safe at home.
Access to shade and clean water
Just as we need to stay hydrated, our dogs must have access to plenty of clean water to stay healthy during hot summer days. Dogs should always have cool shelter, shade or stay indoors in hot weather.
Be careful around pools, lakes and rivers
Some dogs are natural swimmers, but others, such as those with short noses or those with health conditions, can quickly find themselves in trouble in a body of water. Supervise carefully and don’t overdo the exercise, even if it is in the water. Make sure your dog can easily get out of a pool if you allow him to swim, and if you’re in an area with a pool, be sure your dog cannot jump or fall in without a way out. Be aware that some lakes in summer have algae that can be fatal to your dog – know the conditions of water before you allow your dog to swim. Your dog will also need plenty of clean water to drink, regardless of whether you are around water or not.
Don’t shave your dog if it will be outdoors in summer
It’s easy to think that your dog will be comfortable if you shave it during the summer. But a dog’s coat is designed to insulate against cold, heat and sun. It’s fine to trim long hair to make your dog more comfortable and easier to care for, but a complete shave can make him susceptible to sunburn and heatstroke. Many people shave their elderly pets in summer – if you do, keep them inside and supervise outdoor time.
Beware of garden and plant hazards
Dangerous plants and garden products
Dogs love to run and play on cool grass, but insecticides and fertilizers can be dangerous to your pet. If you fertilize or use insecticides, be sure to read labels carefully and keep your pet off the grass for the amount of time the label suggests. Keep all garden products out of reach of pets. Certain mulch products, such as those made with cocoa bean, are deadly to dogs. Read labels and research before you use such garden products. It’s also wise to research the kinds of plants you place in your garden, as some are dangerous to dogs.
Safe summertime – prepare for fireworks and thunderstorms
Thousands of dogs are lost each year during fireworks celebrations because the noise and vibrations cause them to panic and try to escape. Frightened dogs can jump or climb fences, break through windows, or panic and escape even if on a leash. As summer fireworks shows approach, make sure your dog is microchipped and during fireworks, securely contained in your home. Play soothing music, and if your dog is particularly afraid of loud noises, check with your vet ahead of time for a calming sedative if needed. Many pet outlets carry natural calming chews and treats that are effective.
Some dogs are especially sensitive to thunderstorms, but there are steps you can take as summer monsoons approach. Offer your dog a safe place to shelter during thunderstorms – a closet or covered crate often helps. Thundershirts™ are a proven help for anxious dogs during summer storms. Thunderworks.com™ offers a number of calming products and advice to help your pet during these times.
Update your pet’s vaccines and guard against pests
Some dangerous or deadly illnesses such as Rabies, Parvovirus and distemper are more prevalent during warmer months. Be sure to keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date, and remember to check dates for Rabies vaccines – bites can happen anytime and can require quarantine for your pet. You’ll want your pet to be protected in case it comes in contact with a wild animal.
Use caution with topical pesticides
It’s wise to be careful with topical insecticides for pets – some dogs are sensitive to them and they can even be fatal. Many natural products will control the occasional tick or flea, but consult with your vet if you have a more persistent problem. Be aware that some dog breeds are more sensitive to certain topical pesticides and medicines – know your dog’s breed before use.
Guard against foxtails
While you’re out, watch out for contact with foxtails. Your dog can pick up foxtails in your yard or while out for walks and hikes. These little barbed seeds can work their way into paw pads, nose or ears, and sometimes require extraction by a veterinarian. Be aware of excessive sneezing, ear scratching or pain, or any sore or lump that might indicate a foxtail has worked its way under the skin. Check often in between your dog’s paws, in its ears, and down to the skin to remove foxtails before they become a problem.
Resources:
Summer Safety & Travel Tips
Arizona Humane Society: azhumane.org
American Kennel Club: tinyurl.com/2s43b9se
Thundershirts™ and calming products:
Thunderworks.com
