Summer Safety/Travel, Heat, Foods, Etc.

HEAD: Safe Fun in the Summertime

Summer means getting outdoors, getting on the road, and getting your barbecue on—but it can also be hazardous for your pet. Here are some tips to make sure you and your furry friend have the best summer ever!

  • Heat kills! Never leave your pet in a car, even for a quick trip! On a sunny 70o day, your car can heat up to over 100o in minutes. Hot asphalt will scorch your pet’s paws—so if it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for your pooch.
  • Don’t let your dog drink seawater, lake water or river water. Water from the ocean can bring on vomiting and dehydration, while lake and river water are often full of bacteria that can cause illness. If there’s a bloom of blue-green algae, your pet could be at risk of liver failure and nervous system damage if they ingest it.
  • [Copperheads/Rattlesnakes] are the most common venomous snake in our region and they’re found statewide. Keep your pet leashed, on trails, out of marshy areas, and no sniffing where you can’t see to avoid these very dangerous bites.
  • Even if your pet is on a tick preventative, it’s a good idea to check for these little dudes after being outdoors. They can jump from pets to people and carry nasty illnesses, including Lyme disease.
  • Cookouts are tasty, but cooked meat bones often splinter and become hazardous if swallowed. Nix the corn cobs, too—they can cause intestinal blockage.
  •  If you’re taking your pet on the road or in the air, health and/or travel certificates from an accredited veterinarian may be required. Our veterinarians can issue those and ensure your pet is healthy enough to travel.
  • If you’re off on a vacay without the fur kids, make your reservations now at XXXX as spots fill fast during the summer months. You’ll also want to make sure your pet is current on all required vaccinations for boarding.  
  • Fireworks are fun for us, but the racket is terrifying for many pets. Keep them inside, with calm music or white noise on. If you think your pet may need medication to deal with the noise on July 4th, make an appointment with your XXXX veterinarian now online or by calling 999-999-9999.