Summer is coming up quick! This may very well be Fido’s favorite season. He gets to run and play outdoors, enjoy hot-weather doggy activities, like swimming and playing Frisbee, and sniff all the trees and plants. However, this time of year does present some specific hazards for our canine pals. You’ll read about a few of the key ones in this article from me, your Marion, IA area veterinarian.
Dehydration
Making sure your pooch always has clean water is always important, but it’s extra critical at this time of year. Consider setting out extra water stations. (Fido won’t mind having a few ice cubes dropped into his water on hot days, either.)
Overheating
Hot weather is very dangerous for our canine companions. Fido can’t sweat, so he only has two ways to cool himself off if he gets too hot: panting and drinking water. Your four-legged buddy should always have access to cool areas. Also, take care not to overexert your dog when it’s very hot.
Another huge no? Leaving your furry friend in a parked car. Temperatures rise very fast tinside vehicles, and can reach deadly levels in minutes.
Wildlife
Encounters with wild animals—and even loose dogs—can pose a serious threat to your furry buddy. Keep Fido current on his vaccines and parasite control products, and don’t let him run around off-leash. If you live or often spend time in wild or wooded areas, you may want to consider having your pup vaccinated against Lepto. Ask your veterinarian for more information.
Mishaps
Fido is curious, active, and playful. These traits make him a fun and charming pet, but they can also get him into trouble. Be very careful when bringing your pooch to places like pools and campsites, as things like campfires, deep water, and even trash can all pose risks. Chemicals, such as slug bait or fertilizer, are also very dangerous to your furry friend.
Plants
Fido loves to sniff—and sometimes nibble at—plants and flowers. This, too, can be dangerous. Foxtail grasses are one concern. They have sharp seed awns that can penetrate dogs’ skin, causing severe internal injuries. However, those are far from the only dangerous plants. Pigweed, poison ivy, tulips, daffodils, and many others are toxic to dogs. Check the ASPCA site here for more.
Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact me, your Marion, IA area veterinarian!
