6 Major Summer Hazards for Your Pet
1. Heat and sun exposure
Dogs and cats become dehydrated quickly, so make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water and shade when outdoors. In fact, dog houses aren't ideal, as they trap heat. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends filling up an inflatable pool for your pooch if he or she is spending the day outside. If it's over 80 degrees and/or humid, avoid long walks and asphalt or other hot surfaces, which can burn paw pads. Walk your dog early in the morning or in the evening, especially if you plan to run or play. Signs of heatstroke and dehydration include heavy panting, difficulty breathing, bright red gums or tongue, thick salvia, and unsteadiness. Cats may also act restless, groom excessively, pant or drool, and have sweaty feet. If you suspect your pet has heat stroke, act immediately. Give your pet water or ice cubes, move her to a cool location, and immerse or spray her with cold water -- just be careful not to overdo it.
And just like you, pets can get sunburned. "Dogs can get sunburned on their noses where they have no fur, in areas where they've been shaved, or if they're older and have a sparse coat," says Dr. Bonnie Brown, founder of the Gotham Veterinary Center in New York City. "You do need to put sunscreen on them." Consider using a kiddy sunscreen if you don't want to splurge on doggy SPF.
Finally, Dr. Brown emphasizes never, ever leave your dog in the car, even if it's parked in the shade and the windows are open.
Related: 7 Things Your Vet Wants You to Know
2. Toxins in and around the house
That beautiful garden of yours may not be safe for roaming pets. Commonly used lawn products may be poisonous if ingested, so look for natural, non-toxic garden care products if your pet likes to nibble. Steer clear of treated areas on walks. For a complete list of toxic plants for pets, check the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)'s database.
Also, keep bug repellent, Citronella candles, and other insect-killing products away from pets. If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten something toxic, call the ASPCA Poison Control Center hotline 888-426-4435 and/or head to the vet immediately.
3. Parties
While your pooch may love socializing as much as you do, you're less likely to be watching him closely at a busy party. Hot grills and barbecues are a hazard for pets (who might be tempted by the smell of sizzling burgers), as well as open pools. Beware of human foods that are poisonous to pets, including alcohol, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chives, avocado, chocolate, macadamia nuts, and products sweetened with xylitol. And always avoid feeding your dog raw or undercooked meat and bones as they may contain harmful bacteria.
Related: 9 Brave Pets Who Became True Heroes
4. Water
Never leave your dog unsupervised around a swimming pool -- even if he's a swimmer, he may not be able to get out of the pool without help. Luckily, it's okay for dogs to drink some pool water (as if you could stop them!). "Just like kids, dogs do sometimes ingest chlorine water or salt water, but they don't usually ingest enough of the water to be a problem... though sometimes it will make them vomit," says Dr. Brown. She also recommends rinsing off your pooch after swimming in a pool or ocean as both chlorine and salt can irritate a dog's skin.
5. Open windows at home
When it gets hot outside, we tend to open the windows, but it poses a serious hazard to pets. "We really, strongly recommend that everyone has screens for their cats," says Dr. Brown. "People should not open a window without a screen. People think that cats are too smart to fall out, but it's not a question of intelligence: She sees a bird and she doesn't realize she's four floors up."
Related: The Downside of Owning a Pet
6. Traveling
Planning to take your pet with you on a summer road trip? Again, never leave a dog or cat in a parked car. And RVs are no exception. Dr. Brown recommends that cats or dogs not ride in the front seat, where they could be thrown against the car if you stop short or get under your feet. And don't forget that they need bathroom breaks, too.
If you're planning to fly with a pet, be very conscious of potential overheating. Make sure your pet's crate is stocked with water and possibly even ice packs. And always talk to the airline about their safety procedures.
-Scout Maceachron
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