Essential Safety Measures for Canines during the Summer Heat
As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, it's essential to remember that our furry friends need extra care to stay safe and healthy during the summer months. Dr. Cassibry, a renowned veterinarian, advises being proactive, not reactive, in preventing emergencies and ensuring our dogs thrive during the summer.
One of the most pressing concerns is heatstroke and overheating. Dogs, unlike humans, cannot sweat efficiently and cool themselves mainly through panting. High temperatures and direct sun exposure can quickly lead to dangerous heatstroke, causing severe medical complications or even death.
Another hazard to watch out for is burns on paw pads from hot surfaces. Asphalt and concrete can retain heat and burn your dog’s paw pads during walks on hot days. To determine if it's too hot for a walk, try the pavement test: if the pavement is too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
Foxtails, barbed grass seed heads found in dry, grassy areas, are another often overlooked summer hazard. They can burrow into a dog's skin, ears, nose, eyes, or paws, causing painful infections or even internal damage. Symptoms of foxtail presence may include head shaking, paw licking, sudden sneezing, or swelling in affected areas. Prompt veterinary attention is critical if a foxtail is suspected.
Bee or wasp stings can also pose a threat, especially during outdoor activities. These can cause allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. To prevent stings, avoid areas with high insect activity and monitor for allergic reactions.
Toxic plants and water hazards are additional risks. Certain plants like mushrooms, lilies, or sago palms are toxic, while stagnant water may contain blue-green algae or harmful bacteria that dogs can ingest with fatal consequences. Always keep your dog away from toxic plants and unsafe bodies of water.
Ear infections from trapped moisture after swimming or baths are another common issue. To prevent ear infections, dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing and use vet-approved ear cleaners if needed.
Sunburn and skin damage are also concerns, especially for dogs with short, light-colored fur, pink skin, or thin hair coverage. To protect dogs from sunburn, limit sun exposure during peak hours, provide ample shade when outdoors, and consider using pet-safe sunscreen.
To address these hazards and keep dogs safe during summer:
- Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak heat, and carry water to keep them hydrated. - Never leave dogs in parked cars, as temperatures can rapidly become lethal. - Keep parasite preventatives updated since pests are more active in warm weather. - Avoid walking on hot pavement, or use protective booties to prevent paw burns. - Check dogs thoroughly after hikes or walks in wooded or grassy areas, especially around and in the ears, under the collar, between the toes, and under the tail. - Protect dogs from bee/wasp stings by avoiding areas with high insect activity and monitoring for allergic reactions. - Prevent ear infections by drying ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing and using vet-approved ear cleaners if needed. - Use only pet-safe sunscreens designed specifically for dogs, rather than human products. - Avoid exposing dogs to toxic plants and unsafe bodies of water. - Remove wet collars or harnesses promptly and dry the dog fully to prevent skin irritation or hot spots.
Maintaining vigilance about these hazards and implementing these precautions will help ensure dogs enjoy a safe and healthy summer. By being proactive, we can help our dogs beat the heat and make the most of the sunny season.
Science and health-and-wellness go hand in hand during the summer season, particularly in keeping our canine friends safe and healthy. For instance, understanding that dogs can't sweat efficiently means we should be careful with exercise and avoid walks on hot pavement, promoting fitting fitness-and-exercise routines to prevent paw burns (science) and heatstroke (health-and-wellness).
