10 July . 2018
Keep your dog healthy and safe during summer with these tips
We love our dogs because they’re so eager to spend time with us, especially outside. The fun can keep going in the summer months, as long as you follow some basic advice to keep your furry best friend healthy and safe. Here are some hot weather safety tips for your dog from the ASPCA.
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Visit the vet for a spring or early summer checkup, and make sure they get a heartworm test.
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Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, so make sure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times. If they stay outdoors for extended times, make sure they have a shady spot to rest. Keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
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Know the symptoms of overheating. They include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rates, drooling, mild weakness, stupor and even collapse. Additional severe symptoms can include seizures, bloody diarrhea, vomiting and an elevated body temperature above 104 degrees.
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Dogs with flat faces, such as Pugs, cannot pant as effectively as longer-nosed dogs, making them more vulnerable to heat stroke. Other pets at risk include those who are elderly, overweight and have heart and lung diseases. Keep them inside and cool as much as possible.
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Never leave your dog in a parked vehicle. It can lead to fatal heat stroke in a very quick time and is illegal in several states. If you see a dog in a car on a hot day, try to locate the owner or call 911.
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Not all dogs are good swimmers, so don’t leave pets unsupervised around a pool. Introduce your dog to water gradually, and make sure he wears a flotation device when on a boat. Wash your dog after swimming to remove chlorine and salt from her fur. Don’t let dogs drink pool water, which has chemicals.
Now that we’ve covered the safety part, explore all the fun you and your four-legged friends can have at Canyon Falls' amenities, including the Pooch Park and miles of trails.