Summer is just around the corner.
That means warmer weather, cooling off in the pool or local swimming hole, working outside, traveling and so much more, oftentimes with our families.
For many of us, our pets are an important part of our family. So, make sure your pet is safe and comfortable during the dog days of summer.
Erica Andrews, a licensed veterinarian technician at Community Veterinary Center of Oneonta, said there are several ways to protect your pet against the potential dangers of summer.
First, never leave your pet in a parked car. Even if the vehicle is parked in the shade, the inside temperature of a parked car can easily reach 120 degrees or more within a matter of minutes, she said.
"On hot days, animals left in a parked car can experience heat stroke," Andrews said. Heat stroke is a condition that occurs when the body temperature rises above normal levels.
Should your pet show signs of heat stroke, which include rapid heavy breathing, high body temperature, depression, weakness and vomiting, immediately remove him to a cool area and give him cool water. You can also rub him down with a cool cloth.
After your pet has been cooled down enough to travel, he should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible for further assessment.
Other causes of heat stroke include excessive outdoor exercise or being left in the sun without shade and water.
One of the best ways to avoid heat stroke is to provide your pets with adequate water and shade, exercising them early in the morning or evening hours and leaving them at home when running errands.
Also be careful of where you walk your pet. Asphalt heats much faster and gets much hotter than dirt or grass, and pets' paws can burn quickly on hot pavement.
Other hazards common to household pets during the summer months are drowning accidents, flea and tick infestations and fighting injuries.
Not all pets can swim. Also, if pets fall into a body of water where they cannot get themselves out, they can drown due to exhaustion. Keep your pets out of harm's way by fencing off your swimming pool. While near a lake or pond, keep your pet on a leash, a run or confined.
Andrews also recommends routinely checking your pets for fleas and ticks. Not only are fleas and ticks uncomfortable for your pets, they can spread diseases to other pets and people, as well.
Andrews also said that fly larvae may imbed themselves into animals too. Fly larvae are especially common in older animals that may have urine or fecal matter staining their coat, as flies are attracted to this. Regular bathing and treatments as suggested by your veterinarian may help to avoid such parasites.
Fighting injuries for cats and dogs are also very common in the warm weather months, because they are spending more time outdoors.
"If you live in the country," said Andrews, "be aware that porcupines are out and about at night, so we at Community Vet Center recommend leash walking your dog after dark."
Also, be sure to keep your pets up-to-date on their rabies shots.
"It is the law," Andrews said, "even for indoor cats."
Not only will your pets be protected from serious injury, they will protect others as well. For a list of free rabies clinics, contact your vet, Cornell Cooperative Extension or your county health department.
So, as we all prepare for the upcoming summer months, take a few extra moments to be sure to protect your pet from any possible illnesses and injuries that may occur. After all, Fido and Felix are part of the family too.
