As we kick off July, it means the summer season is officially here! Family and friends headed to vacations and the outdoors may have questions on how to protect their pet this summer. Here are some important things to keep in mind for the safety and health of our furry family members!
Microchip Your Pet
These tiny, safe, permanent identification chips can save your pet’s life. Summer brings thunderstorms, fireworks, and more time outside, each of which could result in an escape. Having a microchip that is registered with your up-to-date phone numbers and information can get your pet back to you as quickly a possible.
Don’t have one yet? Visit your local veterinarian (find your closest THRIVE at
THRIVEvet.com) and ask for an appointment for a
microchip placement. It is a quick injection, and we promise to give lots of yummy treats to make it as easy as possible.
Think your pet has a chip, but not sure if it is registered?
Make an appointment for an exam and chip check. Your veterinarian can give you the chip number and help you get it registered!
Safely Walk Your Pet
Short walks are key in the hot weather. Aim for early morning or late evening for cooler temps and think about their feet, too. Hot pavement can cause burns and blisters for our pets – if you can’t walk barefoot, neither should they! At 87⁰ F outside, asphalt can reach 143⁰, meaning skin can blister and burn in under a minute. Be mindful as you walk to any discomfort exhibited by your pet and check their paws for blisters, redness or if they appear darker in color.
If your pet needs to go out during the day, let them walk on grassy surfaces that do not retain heat as much as pavement.
If you must walk your dog during the day, consider dog booties or socks to protect their paw pads from direct contact with hot sidewalks.
Traveling With Your Pet
Beware of BBQs
As the weather heats up, it is an American tradition to fire up the grill and enjoy a BBQ with friends and family. A curious cat could spell trouble near the grill, so keep all pets away from open flames and always monitor the grill. In addition, while you enjoy dinner and drinks, make certain your pet does not get a taste. Many BBQ staples, like beer, onions, garlic, and cooked bones from chicken wings for example, are extremely harmful to your pet.
Advise any visiting guests that they should not feed your pets and to keep an eye on their plates in case Fido’s curiosity get’s the best of him.
Know the Signs of Overheating
The summer heat affects our pets quickly. Did you know dogs and cats only sweat through their paws? They pant to expel excess heat but can still become overheated easily. Pets with shorter noses, like bulldogs, pugs, etc., are particularly at high risk. Overheating occurs when you pet has an elevated temperature of over 104⁰. If you pet exhibits any of the signs below, contact
your vet. Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
Increased heart rate
Drooling
Weakness, stupor and/or collapse
Seizures
Bloody diarrhea and vomiting
Keep Your Pet Hydrated
As with the rest of the year, it is important your pet has access to clean, fresh water during the day. When it is hot or humid outdoors, pets can dehydrate quickly and need plenty of water.
To help avoid dehydration, keep your pet indoors when it is extremely hot and ensure they have shady spots out of the sun when it is safe to go outside.
Be Aware of Summer Bugs
Does the sound of buzzing mosquitoes keep you inside during summer evenings? Those pests, along with ticks and fleas, spread many diseases to your pets.
Heartworms and several bacteria that cause severe illness can be tested for and prevented against with the help of your veterinarian. Be sure to ask what is safest and will provide the best
protection for your special pet.
Summer is a time for relaxation and extra time with our families. By keeping our pets safe, we can ensure they enjoy the sun and fun with us.
Do you have more questions about being a pet parent? Be sure to check out the
THRIVE Guide for Pet Parents weekly to get the answers to your most popular questions. For specific questions and routine care, book an appointment at your local
THRIVE. Our veterinarians are here to provide exceptional and essential care for your pet. Don't wait - book a
nose-to-tail pet exam today!
