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Keep your pets safe in summer

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Family fun during summer days can include your family pets with some planning and awareness. 

Always provide plenty of shade and fresh water when outside with your pets, and don’t leave them outside unattended without checking on them. 

Offering a kiddie pool for cooling off is appreciated by many dogs.

Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat of the day. Keep walks to early or late times to take advantage of cooler temperatures. 

Surfaces like sand and asphalt retain heat, which can damage dogs’ paws.

Keep pets off lawns that have recently been chemically treated or fertilized and be aware of potentially toxic plants.

Check your dog all over if he has been in tall grasses or weeds to make sure he has not picked up a tick. Consult with your veterinarian if tick and/or flea treatment is recommended.

Dogs with a thin coat, white coat, pink skin, etc., can sunburn, so protect vulnerable areas. 

Most dogs enjoy swimming, but some cannot swim, and others may hate the water. Be conscious of your dog’s preferences and skills. Never throw your dog into the water.

If you have your own pool, make sure your dog knows where the exits are. Be sure that pool covers are firmly in place. Never leave your dog unattended in water. Rinse chemically treated water off your dog.

If traveling by air, be aware that many airlines will not ship pets during summer months due to dangers caused by heat.

If driving, help keep your pet cool by placing icepacks in their crate and the crate well ventilated. Put a sunshade on your car windows.

Bring along fresh water and a bowl; keep a water-filled spray bottle to spritz your dog.

Heatstroke can be the serious and often fatal result of a dog’s prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, rapid breathing, excessive drooling and bright red gums and tongue. If your dog exhibits signs of heatstroke, you should immediately try to cool the dog down. If you cannot get the dog cooled down, call your veterinarian immediately.

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