I think that our pets want to be included in anything and everything that we do…and whenever I can include them, I do. I think the added interaction, bonding and stimulation contribute to their health, well-being and even maybe their longevity.
That being said, when we include them, we have to take precaution that we protect them from things that can turn our warm fun a into bummer summer.
Here’s some Spring and early Summer tips to protect your pets from creepy crawlies, belly aches and other warm weather buzz kills (that can be avoided if you use common sense):
Creep Crawlies
If your pet is NOT on heartworm treatment year round schedule a test BEFORE resuming your preventative. MAJOR IMPORTANT!!! No matter where you are, your dog can be at risk. There are A LOT of mosquitoes that chomped on dogs in the south, that have been rescued and brought up here. One mosquito bite and it transfers from that dog to the next. PREVENTION IS THE KEY.
Start your Flea and tick prevention! Whatever your preference, holistic or regular. If your area’s average temperature is below 40 degrees, we classify that as a “Low Flea Alert.” If your area’s average temperature is between 40 and 64 degrees, that’s a “Moderate Flea Alert.” If your area’s average temperature is 65 and above, that’s a “High Flea Alert.”
As with ANY and ALL treatments, prescription or over the counter, CONSULT YOUR VETERINARIAN BEFORE STARTING ANY OF IT.
I found this amazing (and obvious) list of things we should know, but may forget or think “won’t happen to me.” it will, so don’t be stupid and take the advice from our friends at veterinaryemergencyservice.com
Belly Achers
Lawn Care: Lawn chemicals can be very toxic if ingested. Try to keep your pet off new fertilized lawns for 24 hours. Always save to original bag for later reference if ingestion occurs. If your pet does ingest these chemicals, contact your veterinarian, ASCPA, or us at the Veterinary Emergency Service.
Spring Clean-ups: Keep all household cleaners and chemicals out of reach of your pets.
Toxin Reminders:
- Cocoa Bean Mulch
- Chocolate (semi-sweet and dark), the higher the level of cocoa the greater the toxicity
- Macadamia Nuts
- Grapes and Raisins
- Baby food containing onion powder or garlic
- Alcohol
- Almonds
- Caffeine
- Coffee Grounds
- Raw cloves of garlic
- Mushrooms
- Onions
- Tobacco
- Xylitol
Warm Weather Buzzkills
Pools/Lakes: Never leave your pet attended when they are swimming and always make sure they have an easy way out or the pool is enclosed and inaccessible.
Fishing Tackle: Colorful stinky fishing lures are very tempting to cats, dogs and birds and can be very dangerous. Hooks are usually barbed and can not be backed out until the barb is removed. Never try to remove these hooks on your own. Seek veterinary help to prevent tissue trauma.
Pick up Trucks: Dogs love to feel the wind in their faces but uncovered truck beds are a very dangerous place for your pet. Sudden stops or turns can throw your pet from the truck and can cause a major injury resulting from a fall or by being hit by an oncoming car. Additionally, there is a lot of debris and insects moving at high velocities that can cause eye injuries. It is best if your pet is secured inside your truck.
Cars: Never leave your pet unattended in your car. While it is never a good season to leave a pet in a car attended, summer can be particularly deadly. Don’t lull yourself into a false sense of security by leaving the window open. It never takes long for heat to rise and you’re pet to suffer from heat stroke.
Heat Stroke: This is very serious and you should always seek medical care. It does not always take much on a warm day for a dog or cat to experience heat stroke. If your pet experiences a heat related issue cover them with a cool wet towel and transport to your veterinarian immediately.
Windows: Whether you live in a private home or an apartment, you’ll be tempted to open windows to let in the fresh air. Be sure to keep screens or protective bars on your windows to prevent your pets from escapes or falls. And bird owners should make sure their feathered friends are protected from drafts.
Save a pet if you see one in danger. Take a pet to the emergency room if you even think there is a slight chance they are in danger or ingested a toxin.
Call Poison Control 888-426-4435