Summer and Pets
Summer is a great time for pets, but is also the time for extra care! With summer comes heat, extra exercise and activity; and for some, fleas.
Some considerations for summertime pet care;
One thing you may not think about this summer is power windows in your car. Here is an important tip - When your pet is looking out an open window, put the window lock on!!! A dog can have its head out the window and step on the power window button closing its head in the window! If your car does not have a driver window lock button, do not open the window enough for the dog to fit its head through it!
Indoor Pets often do not feel the difference as much as outdoor pets, but there are some serious considerations.
Heat - If you do not have air conditioning, or there are areas of the house where it is warmer in the summer, you need to take some extra steps in the summer. Make sure that the pet is not exposed to high temperatures for long periods. Take into consideration that you may not make it home when you plan to (you never know when that car will break down), and have a backup plan for your pet. Make arrangements with a friend or relative so that if you can not make it home, they can stop by and care for your pet.
Water is the most important need of pets in warm weather. Be sure there is plenty of fresh water 24 hours a day. A backup, such as a pail of water is a very good idea. Fans can help, but allow the pet to decide how much of the breeze he/she wants to endure (i.e. do not place a fan directly on a cage). Even a small window air conditioner will create a cool area for your pet on the hottest days.
Guests - Summer visitors come and go and doors are often left open on hot days. Educate your guests on the pet rules of the house and double check yourself - often. Proper identification is most important at this time of the year.
Depending on where you live, fleas can be a real problem. They can lead to skin problems and invade your home. It is best to talk to your veterinarian and consider his/her recommendations for your part of the nation. One word of caution - many flea products can be highly toxic, to your pet and your family. Just because the product is accepted does not mean you should use it! The less chemicals the better. One idea that may work for you; Buy a good quality flea comb and some alcohol. Run the comb through your pet's fur once then immediately dip in alcohol. Repeat until the whole coat has been combed. Depending on the problem, do this once or twice a day. You will see the numbers decrease every day (and no risk of unseen health problems)!
You must take great care when exercising with your pet. Consider his/her health and age. How often does your pet get exercise comparable to what you are about to embark on?
Biking is not a good idea for most pets. You are exerting less than 1/2 of the energy of your pet and it is difficult to go the speed comfortable for the pet. Avoid biking with your pet.
Start out slow and watch your pet carefully. Look for signs of fatigue and allow your pet to rest. Try not to use a leash (if legal and practical), so the pet can show you more easily that it is tired or slowing. Don't forget WATER! You must bring water for your pet and offer it often. You will get a feel for how often he/she wants to drink, but until you know this, offer water every 5 minutes on a run or bike and 15 minutes on a hike. Always observe the rules of the land. Keep your pet from approaching other pets, people and wildlife (even if you think it is OK).
Altitude - Remember that higher elevations affect your pet as much or more than it does you. Also dehydration can be another problem of higher elevations.
Nutrition - You should always feed a high quality food, but in summer months it is even more important as your pet depletes its nutrition. You will also need to feed more as your pet becomes more active, watch its weight carefully.
The first rule to camping is to find out if pets are allowed and what rules you will need to follow. That said, your pet will have a great time! Be sure your pet is obedient. There is nothing worse than chasing a pet through the woods! Spend a little extra time training (or re-training) before your camping trip. Keep your pet within eyesight and under voice control at all times. Do not allow your pet to come in contact with wildlife, these encounters can be deadly to wildlife and your pet! Keep your pet from roaming at night - they could easily get lost. Permanent identification is a must on a camping trip.
Bathing - Remember that a pet's coat is balanced by nature and too much bathing can cause skin problems. Some tips to remember;
Always remember that when you are out with your pet to be courteous to others. Do not let your dog approach others and never let your cat run free so a neighbor will come out to find paw prints on their new car! And of course, spay or neuter.