Canine Summer Safety Tips

We may know our canine companions better than anyone else, but it is important to remember most of us are not medical professionals.  If you are uncertain how to treat your dog’s medical needs or if you have any questions, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.  It is important to keep the following information in mind with the arrival of summer:

• Have your dog’s vaccinations updated as necessary.  Diseases such as rabies, distemper and parvo are ever-present dangers, and necessary precautions should be taken.
• Beware of insect bites.  If your dog is bitten or stung, remove the stinger and watch the site for an allergic reaction.  If a reaction occurs or if there have been multiple wasp, bee or mosquito bites, take the animal to the vet.
• Talk with your veterinarian about flea and tick prevention medications.
• Heartworm is a common problem for dogs.  Take your dog to a vet for a heartworm check every spring, and follow your vet’s advice for heartworm precautions.
• Most lawn and garden products may be hazardous.  Make sure that plants and fertilizers within the dog’s reach are not toxic.
• The outdoors exposes dogs to the elements.  Dogs may need extra brushing and bathing to stay clean and healthy.
• No matter how careful and responsible you may be, accidents can happen.  Make sure your vet’s phone number is close at hand and available to all family members.

General Summer Safety Concerns

Hot weather can make anyone feel uncomfortable, and your dog is no exception.  Here are some safety concerns for responsible dog owners:

• Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or in a closed vehicle.  Heatstroke can occur and lead to brain damage or death.  Signs of heatstroke are panting, drooling, rapid pulse and fever.  Immediately immerse the dog in cool water and seek emergency veterinary assistance.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a hot, parked car.  When it’s only 80 degrees outside, the inside of a car can heat up to more than 120 degrees in just minutes.  Leaving the windows partially rolled down will not help!  Your dog is susceptible to heat stroke and possible death in these conditions.
• Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
• All dogs should have proper identification at all times.  The American Kennel Club suggests a collar with an ID tag, along with a tattoo or microchip.
• Keep your dog on a leash when he is outdoors to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Try to avoid strenuous exercise with your dog on extremely hot days and refrain from physical activity when the sun’s heat is most intense.

Taking your dog to the beach can be a great way to spend a beautiful summer day.  However, as a responsible dog owner there are certain precautions you should take:

• Provide plenty of fresh water and shade for your dog.
• Dogs can get sunburned, especially shorthaired dogs and ones with pink skin and white hair.  Limit your dog’s exposure when the sun is unusually strong, and apply sun block to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.
• Check with a lifeguard for daily water conditions – dogs are easy targets for jellyfish and sea lice.
• If your dog is out of shape, don’t encourage him to run on the sand.  Running on a beach is strenuous exercise, and a dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament.
• Cool ocean water is tempting to your dog.  Do not allow him to drink too much seawater.  The salt in the water will make him sick. 
• Salt and other minerals found in the ocean can damage your dog’s coat.  So, when you are ready to leave for the day, rinse him off with fresh water.
• Not all beaches permit dogs.  Check local ordinances before you begin your excursion to the beach.
• Be careful of strong tides that are hazardous for even the best of swimmers.
• Never leave your dog unattended!  You should always be in a position to help him get out of the water.

Taken from the American Kennel Club publication “Canine Summer Safety Tips,” which is available from the AKC Customer Service Department, 919-233-9767 or orderdesk@akc.org.