Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your family and
pets. But, there are special hazards that come with hot weather.
Your dog is particularly susceptible to heat stroke. His primary
means of cooling off is through panting and the evaporation that
takes place when he does. The short snouts of breeds such as Pugs
and Bulldogs make this system less efficient, so owners need to
be aware of their pet's increased vulnerability.
This season's very hot temperatures can easily overwhelm any canine's
"cooling system." Here are a few tips for your pets' summertime
safety.
-
Never
leave your dog (or any living thing) in an enclosed automobile.
Temperatures in the car can quickly rise to 120 degrees. At
107 degrees, your pet can go into convulsions and death can
result from prolonged exposure. Even with the windows cracked
open, the heat rises quickly and the car is not safe.
-
Whenever
your pet is outdoors, be sure there is plenty of fresh water
available to him. Water refuels his temperature regulating system.
-
Make
sure your pet has access to a shady spot, where he can retreat
from the sun's direct rays.
-
Swimming
pool water is not safe for your pet to drink, especially if
he is a small dog.
-
Keep
an eye on your pet in the pool. Small breeds, in particular,
can drown when the are unable to climb out of the pool on their
own.
-
Be
careful around rivers or in the ocean. Supervise your dog as
you would a young child under similar conditions.
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