Tag Archives: dehydration

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

Beach Safety Tips for Your Dog

Thinking of taking your dog on vacation with you and your family this summer? Many of our canine companions love going to the beach! Before beach day begins, though, take note of these safety tips as discussed by your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian:

Heed Beach Rules

Remember: not all beaches allow animals. Be sure to check on this before leaving home. Even beaches that do allow pets may have certain restrictions based on species, size, etc. It’s also essential that you bring along several plastic baggies to pick up after your dog—not only is it rude to leave his droppings where they lay, it’s unsanitary. In some areas, it may even be illegal!

Protect Against Heat and Sun

One of the biggest dangers of beach day for your dog is the heat and sun. Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke after only a short time in high heat and humidity. Be sure to set up a beach umbrella to provide shade, and take your dog back indoors if you think he’s getting too hot. You may also consider applying a canine-formulated sunscreen to areas of exposed skin; this can prevent painful burns and blisters.

Hydrate

It’s all too easy for your pooch to become dehydrated at the beach, even though there’s an ocean of water in front of him. Bring along a large thermos or two of cool, fresh water just for your dog, and offer him sips from it regularly. Also make sure not to let Fido drink any ocean water, as the salt will dry out the mouth and only make your dog thirstier. Ocean water may also contain bacteria and other contaminants that you don’t want your pet ingesting.

Water Safety Tips

Will your dog be venturing into the water? Be sure to go in with him. Keep in mind that not all dogs are strong swimmers, and even those who are may be taken off guard by the ocean’s currents. It’s best to provide support at all times. Never let your dog go out into the water more than a few feet off shore.

Final Rinse

Leaving sand and salt water in your dog’s coat after you exit the beach isn’t a good idea. These substances will dry out the fur and irritate the skin. Make sure to rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water.

Call your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian for more beach safety tips.

Cat Care, Dog Care, General Care

5 Summertime Safety Hazards for Pets

It’s a safe bet that your pet is looking forward to the warm breezes and family fun of summer just as much as you are. Keep in mind that several pet hazards crop up this time of year—below, your Floyds Knob, IN veterinarian tells you more.

Heat

For animals, the main hazard of summertime is the sweltering heat. They’re simply not equipped to deal with heat and humidity! Keep outdoor sessions short, and try to exercise your pet during the cooler morning or evening hours rather than during the middle part of the day, when it’s hottest. Always make sure your pet has a dish of cool, fresh water to drink from as they please.

Outdoor Pests

Veterinarians typically see an increase in pest-related infestations and infections during the warmer months, as critters like fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and parasitic worms come out of the woodwork to latch on to our animal companions. Avoid the danger before it strikes by keeping your pet on quality preventative medications against these pests. Talk to your vet if your pet needs such measures.

Allergies

Have you noticed your pet sniffling, sneezing, or scratching themselves more than usual this time of year? Allergies may be to blame. Dogs and cats alike can suffer from allergies just like humans can; they may react to pollen, dirt, dust, dander, mold, and more. If you suspect your pet suffers from allergies, contact your vet’s office to ask about medication.

Fireworks

The Fourth of July is just around the corner. Remember that pets don’t take kindly to fireworks; in fact, pyrotechnics usually terrify animals! Don’t risk a runaway pet this summer. Leave your animal friend safely secured at home rather than bringing them to the local fireworks display, and use caution when lighting off firecrackers or sparklers at home.

Lawn & Garden Chemicals

Do you spray fertilizer on your lawn, or pesticides on your garden plants and flowers to keep the bugs away? Keep your pet indoors when spraying chemicals, and make sure they don’t come in contact with any recently treated plants or grass. These chemicals may poison a pet who manages to ingest too much. Also take care to store such chemicals in a place where pets won’t be able to gain access.

These aren’t the only summertime pet hazards out there—talk to your vet in Floyds Knob, IN for more great seasonal safety tips.