Summer Safety Tips

HEATSTROKE

During warm weather, the inside of your car can reach 120* in a matter of minutes, even if you're parked in the shade. Dogs and cats can't perspire and can only dispel heat through the pads of their feet and by panting. Pets that are left in hot cars even for a short time can suffer from heat exhaustion, heatstroke, brain damage and death. Play it safe by leaving your pet cool and refreshed at home while you're on the road.

Help Prevent heatstroke at home by providing your pet with plenty of cool, fresh water and have shade available at all times. Provide adequate ventilation and air circulation when pets are kept in kennels or pens. Also, provide shade covers to outdoor pets. Avoid excessive exercise during hot weather. If you need to exercise on hot days, it is wise to limit exercise to early morning or late evening hours when it is cooler. Remember that asphalt and concrete get very hot and can burn your pet's paws.

PICK-UP TRUCKS

It is very dangerous to drive with a dog in the bed of a truck. Flying debris can cause serious injury to your pet. If you should have to swerve or hit the brakes your dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic. Protect your pet by putting crating them in the cab of the truck with you, in a seat belt harness or in a crate secured in the bed of your truck.

FERTILIZER AND INSECTICIDES

Plant food, fertilizer and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. Keep all poisonous garden chemicals out of reach of your pet.
*Read instructions carefully before applying to your lawn or garden.

THUNDERSTORMS AND FIREWORKS

Take your pets inside if there is a possibility of a thunderstorm. Loud thunder may frighten them or lightening could strike them. Loud noises combined with heat can be stressful and dangerous for pets. This is especially true of the Fourth of July. The fireworks are particularly scary to some pets. Avoid unnecessary stress by simply leaving them inside your home.

SUNBURN

Pets are subject to sunburn just as you are so, if you're planning a prolonged time in the sun, your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. This is especially important if your pet has a light-colored nose or light-colored fur on his or her ears. Always provide shade, shelter and plenty of  fresh water for outdoor pets.

FLEAS AND TICKS

Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic, even when used according to the instructions.
Also, check with your veterinarian to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication. Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal in both dogs and cats.

SWIMMING POOLS

Prevent free access to pools. If your pet enjoys the water, always supervise them.