Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworm… Oh My!
Even a minor flea infestation is unpleasant for pets and people alike. A serious flea infestation can introduce worms or your dog can wind up anemic from all the parasites. Prevention is the key here. Frontline and Advantage are the two most popular monthly treatments to prevent an infestation. They work on ticks, too. This is important since a tick on your dog can wind up on you. Lyme Disease is a potentially serious, debilitating chronic illness for you or your dog and easy to avoid. You will need to medicate your dog separately for heartworm. Ask your veterinarian for guidance if you are unsure.
Overheating
Dogs can't sweat the same way people do and it makes them prone to overheating. That is why you never leave a dog in a car when it is over 72 degrees - it only takes five minutes for the temperature in an enclosed car to reach 30 degrees above the air temperature outside if parked in direct sunlight. Cracking the windows doesn't help. It isn't just in the car, though, where dogs are prone to overheating. If your dog isn't in shape, taking him on a ten -mile hike isn't such a great idea. Your pup is likely to keep going until he collapses. Take frequent breaks and carry plenty of water with you on hot days - for the dog, too. If he is panting heavily or slowing down, look for a shady spot to relax together.
Potable Water
Don't let your dog play in standing water, and don't let him drink it. Giardia is the most common waterborne parasite dogs contract, and it can be fatal. Children exposed to giardia can even be blinded. This is easily avoidable by carrying enough water with you to keep your dog comfortable.
More Car Dangers
Keep a firm grip on your dog's leash if he isn't in a completely secure fenced-in area. Summer is the peak times for dogs to be hit by cars. Never “walk” your dog when on a bike or while holding the leash from behind the steering wheel. It is dangerous for both of you. Yes, it is cute when your dog hangs his head outside the window, but did you consider what even a speck of dust traveling at highway speed can do to his cornea? Keep your dog inside the car at all times, preferably restrained, to prevent injuries.
Hot Pavement
Ami Moore, a Chicago Dog Trainer, had a client call her in a panic. “She had taken her Newfie for a walk and there was blood all over her car. She couldn't find any evidence of a cut on his paws and the vet didn't return her call.” The owner was in complete shock when Ami told her that long walk on a hot day probably burned the dog's paws and the blisters were bursting. Ami was right. The temperature on the ground tends to be warmer - it is part of the reason dogs tend to overheat. Sand is just as dangerous as concrete. “If it is too hot for your feet,” Ami cautions, “it is too hot for your dog's paws, too.”
Summer Parties
Dogs often can escape undetected from a big backyard barbecue, where they can become lost or struck by a car. Make sure your dog is secure and check on him regularly throughout your soiree. They also can be overstimulated and prone to aggressive behavior. Ensure none of your guests gives alcohol to your dog, or anything burning hot from the grill.
Parades and Fireworks
Parades can be wonderful fun - so can fireworks. But your dog may not share your enthusiasm. These events can induce anxiety and make your dog unusually fearful or aggressive. It is safest to leave your dog at home while attending these events.
Proper Identification
Keep your dog's tags current with his name, address, and your phone number clearly visible in the event he gets away from you. Better yet, get your dog microchipped. If he is brought to the pound or a veterinarian's office, he will be scanned and the odds of a happy reunion with you are greatly improved.
