9 Ways To Protect Pets From Summer Dangers

BRANDON, FL – Florida’s summer heat will stick around long after the calendar says autumn is here. While people have plenty of ways to stay cool, pets need their owner’s help to get through the dog days of summer.

From getting sick from eating common backyard plants to overheating from the scorching sun, there are plenty of dangers pets face during the summer months.

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center has released a list of dos and don’ts to help people keep their furry friends safe:

Dos

• Do keep water close by with your pet to avoid dehydration during humid days. Pets can also be given ice cubes or pet-friendly frozen treats to help keep them cool.
• Do walk pets early in the morning or late evening to avoid the full sun and midday heat, which can lead to pet overheating.
• Do learn the symptom of dog heat stroke: Excessive panting and drooling, weakness, disorientation and/or seizures.
• Do update contact information on any pet’s color and microchip before going on vacation. This will allow for a quicker reunion if a pet escapes during your absence.
• Do groom dogs and cats to keep their coats light and allow for air circulation. That will help regulate their body temperature.
• Do use a pet-safe sunscreen on short-haired or hairless pets and pets with white coats to protect from sunburn.
• Do monitor pets around pools and other bodies of water so they don’t accidentally fall in and possibly drown. Also, dress pets in a life vet if they are taken on a boat.
• Do have a disaster plan for your pets in case of an emergency. For more information, visit http://hcflgov.net/en/residents/animals-and-pets/pet-ownership/pet-disaster-planning.
• Do know where dog-friendly places are located. For more information, visit http://hcflgov.net/en/newsroom/2017/02/16/parks-get-pets-and-people-off-their-leash.

Don’ts

• Don’t leave pets unattended in a car. Dogs and cats do not sweat like people so they more easily overheat and die if left in cars, especially during hot summer months.
• Don’t walk pets on hot pavement as it can burn their paws.
• Don’t shave a double-coated dog. Consult your veterinarian on ways to help them manage the heat. If you aren’t sure what type of coat your dog has, ask a veterinarian.
• Don’t let pets eat backyard plants that grow during the summer months as many are toxic. For a list of toxic plants, visit https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants.
• Don’t forget flea and tick medication. Fleas and ticks thrive in hot temperatures and pets can get sick from these pests.
• Don’t let your pet drink any liquids from the ground. Leaked liquids from cars and other sources, like antifreeze, can be extremely toxic.

If you think your pet is suffering from heatstroke, the Pet Resource Center recommends:

• Cool them by submerging them in water or run a hose over the pet. It’s important to cool the animal’s head while keeping water out of their airways. Put the animal in an air-conditioned building or vehicle, or at least in the shade.
• Call a veterinarian immediately.
• Notify authorities. To report an animal in danger or heat distress, immediately notify a law enforcement officer and call the Pet Resource Center’s Animal Control Division at (813) 744-5660.

Image courtesy of Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center Facebook page