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Keeping pets safe in the summer a challenge

4 min read
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Summer can be a fun but challenging time for pet owners. Heat, thunderstorms, fireworks, fleas and ticks – they can cause fear, anxiety, discomfort, and, in some cases, serious health problems.

Dr. Rebecca Krejci of Canon Hill Veterinary Clinic and Tracy Childers of Paw-ticular Pets Boarding Kennel offer some information about keeping pets safe during the summer months.

Walking in parks and on nature trails can increase exposure to ticks. While most people are concerned in summer months, Krejci, who has worked as a veterinarian for 13 years, warned, “Fleas and ticks are a year-round problem. Ticks have a lifespan of about 2 years and can survive the winter under leaf packs in the woods. Fleas can lay eggs in carpeting and remain dormant for up to 180 days before re-infestation.”

Dr. Rebecca Krejci

She recommends a quality monthly flea and tick preventative treatment throughout the year. In addition, pet owners should always check pets after being outdoors, especially after walking in wooded areas.

Fireworks and thunderstorms can cause anxiety in some dogs.

Krejci suggests keeping pets crated or in a fenced yard, since dogs become fearful and may run away in confusion.

“Benadryl can be given to soften mood, but if that isn’t effective, the dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian,” Krejci said.

Before giving your pet any medication, speak to a veterinarian to make sure it is safe, and to ensure proper dosage.

Tracy Childers, who has owned Paw-ticular Pets Boarding Kennel in Eighty Four for 12 years, suggests taking fearful dogs to the basement or a quiet area of the house.

“Turning on the radio or television to mask the noise can be helpful,” Childers said. “Putting dogs in the bathroom and turning on the water can be calming.”

Tight-fitting, anxiety-reducing shirts can be purchased at pet stores, or Tracy suggests purchasing a child’s shirt – one that would fit snugly depending on the size of the dog – to place on your dog during the storm or fireworks celebration. Wrapping them tightly in a blanket and holding them until the storm passes will work with some dogs, too.

The summer heat can be dangerous for dogs and cats. Pets should always have free access to clean water. Krejci also suggests using ice cubes as treats on hot days.

Pet owners should never leave dogs in a vehicle when the temperature is more than 70 degrees. Another way to avoid the heat is to take longer walks in the morning or evening when the temperature is lower.

Summer heat is as uncomfortable for dogs as it is for humans.

Holly Tonini/Observer-Reporter

Holly Tonini/Observer-Reporter

Rock takes a drink of water to cool off on a hot summer day at Paw-Ticular Pets Boarding Kennel in Eighty Four.

“Always take water and a wet towel with you on your walk, and limit the time outdoors,” Childers said.

Krejci said that heat stroke and exhaustion can set in quickly.

“Symptoms of heat stroke include excessive panting, dizziness, tongue lolling, splaying out on the floor and seizure. If your dog exhibits these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately, as this can be life-threatening,” she said. “A pet suffering from heat exhaustion should be closely monitored in a medical facility as body temperature must be lowered slowly with respiratory and cardiac support.”

Childers also reminds pet owners to be mindful of hot cement and asphalt when it is over 80 degrees outside, as paws can be burned on hot surfaces.

For those planning a summer vacation and who can’t take pets along, a boarding kennel is an option. Most kennels require a dog license, vaccinations for rabies and distemper. Some kennels also require the Bordetella vaccine.

“Take items from home with your dog to the kennel, such as toys or a special blanket, and their own food to prevent stomach issues at the kennel or once returning home,” Childers said.

Since kennels fill up quickly in the summertime, she suggests pet owners make reservations early.

Common sense and preventative measures can help ensure a safe and happy summer for your pets. Always check with your veterinarian for any concerns about your pet’s health.

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