Summer Tips For Your Dog
Summertime is quickly approaching, which means that temperature outside is going to change drastically from needing a light jacket to needing a fan on you constantly. Your dog is going to feel this temperature change as well. In summer, he is going to need some extra care to help keep your dog healthy and happy. Summer doesn't just mean warmer weather, it means other hazards and toxins are abound that could harm your dog, and you need to be careful. Read on for helpful tips to care for your dog this summer.
Watch For Toxins/Hazards
In summer, there is a lot of new growth in your yard and in surrounding areas, and some of this growth can be toxic and harmful to your dog. Some plants may be toxic if your dog eats them, in addition, people are spraying weeds or fertilizing, and this can also be toxic for your dog. You need to be careful about what is used or sprayed around your dog, so your dog doesn't ingest any of it. You should also watch for other things such as the feces of other animals that your dog may find as a tasty treat — this can also be harmful to your dog's health. Keep a watchful eye to be sure he isn't eating or getting into anything that he shouldn't. Some signs of toxin ingestion include excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Watch For Dehydration
Over summer, you may be preoccupied at your weekly barbecue, that you don't notice how much your dog is drinking. If it's a hot summer day, you need to be sure your dog is drinking plenty of water and has shade to prevent not only dehydration but heatstroke as well. If you do suspect your dog is dehydrated, you need to take him to the veterinarian for treatment and care right away. Some signs of dehydration include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or excessive panting.
Watch For Other Pests
Other pests are going to be out and about throughout summer, and if you keep your dog outside at all unsupervised, you could be opening him up to some dangers with stray animals, or wild animals. Keep an eye out for other pests that may come into your yard while your dog is outside, even if you have a fenced-in yard, other pests such as raccoons or opossums can still get into your yard. Other pests can bite or scratch your dog, or worse. Wildlife and other pests can also carry disease, and if your dog isn't protected, he could become ill.
Summer is a fun time, but it can also be a dangerous time for your pets. Keep a close eye on them and be sure to take your dog to the veterinarian if your dog is ever injured, or you suspect any health concerns.
For more information, reach out to a veterinarian in your area.