The weather is slowly getting nicer and we are getting outside more and more with our faithful companions. Here are some important reminders when you venture outdoors with your dogs.
- Be careful on walks and also close to home and in your own yards. There are many hazards that we are not aware of.
- Do not let your dog eat grass that has been treated with pesticides. (if you are unsure keep your dog away)
- Watch for mushrooms popping up in the yard. when we get a lot of rain mushrooms just appear. Some varieties can cause liver failure. So keep an eye out for them and get rid of them in your yard and keep your dog away from them on walks.
- There are also some common plants that are poisonous to your dog. Some lilies and rhubarb leaves can lead to kidney failure. Rhododendron and Azaleas can affect the heart as well as other plants like oleander, foxglove and Yew. Be careful and read cautions or look up plants before planting in your yard.
- Do not leave your dog unattended in the yard or house with a training or choke collar on. The rings can easily get caught on something and cause choking.
- Do NOT leave your dog outside in the sun and heat for long periods of time this can cause heat stroke. Be sure when your dog is outside you have clean fresh water available for him/her.
Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Body temperature of 104-110 degrees Fahrenheit
Heavy panting, rapid heartbeat and glazed eyes
Dark or bright red tongue and gums
Excessive thirst and/or profuse salivation
Fever, Lethargy,dizziness or lack of coordination
Staggering, Stupor and or seizures
Bloody diarrhea or vomiting
unconsciousness
Dogs especially susceptible to heat
Elderly, very young or ill dogs
dogs with snub noses
overweight dogs
large/heavy coated dog breeds
dogs with heart or respiratory problems
If your dog shows symptoms of heatstroke, move the animal into the shade or air conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pets head, neck or chest or immerse in cool (not cold) water. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes.
TAKE YOUR PET TO YOUR VETERINARIAN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
Do not leave your dog unattended in a car on Hot days on an 85 degree day the interior temp of your car can sky rocket to 120-130 degrees in just a few minutes.
Exercise your dog in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler
Hose your dog down before a walk in very hot weather or walks that do not have shade
Take water along on walks for you and your dog.
Use sun screen. Yes your dog can get sunburn!
Have a kiddie pool available with clean water for supervised play.
Use Flea and tick preventative
Have a great time outdoors with your pet, be safe and have fun!!
