It’s getting hot outside! Here are our Top Five Woodland Vet Summer Pet Safety Tips to help you and your pet beat the heat with ease this year!
1. Fireworks & Thunderstorms
Loud noises like fireworks are one of the top reasons pets go missing, so secure your pet in an escape-proof place. We receive so many sad phone calls about missing pets after holidays like the 4th of July! Make sure your pets’ tags and microchip information is up to date as well, so if they are found, the good Samaritans will be able to get in touch with you!
2. Sun & Heat
High summer temperatures and bright days can mean dehydration, overheating, and scorched paws. Know the signs of overheating (excessive panting, increased heart rate, and weakness) and bring your pup indoors or to a cool, shady place. Always make sure your pet has plenty of water handy, and be sure to check the weather report for upcoming high temperatures.
3. Toxic Chemicals
Insecticides, citronella products, and glow sticks are toxic to pets. Keep your pet away from areas where chemicals have been sprayed and ensure dangerous products are out of reach.
4. Parties & Barbecues
If your pet’s joining the party, make sure guests don’t feed your pet human food (especially grapes, onions, avocado, and chocolate) and ensure alcoholic drinks are kept out of your pet’s reach. Resist those big begging eyes and don’t give your pets meaty treats from the BBQ either – it can cause severe upset tummies and vomiting. Bones can break teeth, cause blockages, and splinter – they can cause blockages that require emergency surgery, or get stuck in the windpipe and cause your pet to choke!
5. Hot Cars
Even with the windows open an inch, a car’s temperature can reach over 100° in 10 minutes on an 85° day. Our pets cannot sweat to relieve heat like we can. One quick errand can turn dangerous in minutes, so leave your pet safely at home!
We hope these tips help, but if you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 530-666-2461 and one of our Woodland Veterinary Hospital Care Team members will be happy to help you!