Is Your Dog Ready For Summer? Tips To Protect Your Dog This Season
Get your dogs ready for summer by making sure they are protected against hazards and seasonal illnesses. Talk to your veterinarian about any regional risks that could impact the health and well-being of your pet, to ensure that both you and your dog have a fun-filled and healthy summer!
Make sure Fido is protected with the following tips for summer:
Update your dog's vaccinations and medications. Take your dogs to your vet provider for updates and vaccinations that will protect against seasonal hazards. For example, summer is when heartworm thrives through mosquitoes, so have a heartworm test and medication to ensure your dog is safe. Also, keep them safe from fleas with your vet's help and prevention that will keep them comfortable when the temperatures rise.
Get him (or her) groomed. A well-groomed dog is a happy dog, and it is far easier to spot issues, such as ticks, when your dog's coat is cropped for summer. This will also help to prevent matting which can cause pain and even mobility issues in extreme cases. A groomer provides a second-set of eyes on your pet that could potentially predict or identify any problems that you may miss.
Limit exercise in hot weather. Don't let your dog over-do in the summer months, as a dog can't tell you when they are hot or uncomfortable. Keep rigorous exercise limited and make sure that you give your dogs breaks in the shade when outside during warm weather. If your dog appears lethargic, begins to vomit, or has convulsions, seek veterinary help immediately.
Keep your dog hydrated. Provide your pet with plenty of cold water during summer months, and watch for signs of dehydration. If you think your dog is becoming over-heated or dehydrated, head for a shady spot and give small amounts of water to your dog slowly to help hydrate and restore them.
Dogs need sun-protection, too. Dogs can get sunburns on exposed skin so be prepared to provide shade when necessary. This particularly applies to dogs with short-cropped fur or that have any bald spots on their coat.
Make sure the tags are up-to-date. If you plan on going on any summer adventures, make sure that your dog always wears their tags and that the information on them is accurate. If your dog happens to become separated from you, this provides a much easier way to be reunited.
Use these tips to ensure a safe and fun summer ahead with your dog. Talk to your vet about preventative efforts that can be made to make sure your dog is happy and healthy all season long!
