Hot Weather Pet Tips

Buffalo News Thursday: May 3, 2001 - Fur Pet's Sake

~Courtesy of the La•De•Da Pet Spa

Summer is a great time for you and your pet to get out and enjoy the weather, but there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to your pet.

Heatstroke: Heatstroke occurs when pets "heat up" faster than they can cool down. Animals regulate their temperatures by panting and salivating (humans sweat). Just imagine trying to cool yourself all by breathing really fast and drooling. That's why warm weather means taking extra precautions.

Even if your pet looks at you with the "please take me with you" eyes, it is just not safe on a hot day. The temperature in a car can rise to well above 100 degrees within a few minutes, even with an open window, parked in the shade.

Also, even though letting them stay outdoors all day seems like a good idea, sometimes a bowl of water and a shady spot are not enough to keep the pet properly hydrated.

Contrary to popular belief, there is such a thing as too much exercise. Dogs a built to sprint, not run long distances. They need to take breaks and cool down. A nice leisurely bike ride for you can be a real workout for the dog because they use twice the energy you do when they run along side of you.

If you suspect your pet is overheated, don't chance it. Get them cooled down. You can spray them with cool, not cold water, apply an ice pack to their head, neck, or belly, apply rubbing alcohol to the pads of their feet and give them ice cubes to chew on. It is also recommended you call your vet as soon as possible.

Fleas: Just because you don't see them on your pet, it doesn't mean they are flea free. Most adult fleas only stay on the pet long enough to feed. Flea eggs and larvae develop in your home and can live there year-round. If you notice your pet biting and scratching, especially the lower back, tail, and belly area, they may have a flea problem. The best way to treat fleas is to treat the environment and the pet. Home flea baths are tricky, so professional flea grooming is recommended. While the pet is away, you can treat the rest of the home. Check with your pet's vet for flea prevention supplies.

Ticks: Ticks must be physically removed from your pet. A groomer of vet can show you how. If it's not done properly you may end up accidentally squeezing infectious matter onto your pet, or may only remove part of the tick. Ticks transmit Lyme disease, red blood cell parasites, and other diseases. You should always check your pet for ticks anytime you've been outdoors, especially in the woods.

Mosquitoes: Unfortunately, there is no prevention for mosquitoes, however, you can prevent heartworm which is transmitted by them. Heartworms can be fatal. Check with your vet for proper treatment.

Swimming: Swimming is not bad for your dog, but ear infections and hot spots are. Dogs that have ears that flop over tend to have problems with ear infections. It's the perfect place for bacteria to grow. Water can get trapped here which can lead to a bacterial infection. Signs that the dog's ears are infected are excessive head shaking, scratching, or a foul odor in the ear. In most cases drops and ointment from the vet will clear up the problem. You can also help by cleaning your pet's ears on a regular basis. Groomers can show you how to clean them, or you can make it easier by just having the groomer do the cleaning. Hot spots are skin irritations that can be the breeding grounds for bacteria. Imagine wearing a wool hat into the shower and not taking it off for days. This is similar to hat happens when a dog has matted or tangled hair that gets wet. The wet knot lies on the skin and doesn't dry properly. Signs that your pet may have a hot spot are excessive licking and chewing in a particular area, a visible sore or red spot, a bad smell or a patch of missing hair. The best way to treat a hot spot is to clear the area of fur and debris, clean with peroxide or soapy water, and then try to get them to leave it alone. Antibiotic ointments can help but medicated powders (like for diaper rash, jock itch, etc.) also work too. If the problem persists, see your vet.

With a few precautions and a little extra effort, you and your pet can have a happy healthier summer. Have fun!