The Heat is On: Summer Pet Safety
In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy fears the worst when embarking on the yellow brick road: lions, tigers, and bears (oh, my!). She eventually realizes her fears were unfounded, allowing her to bravely handle anything that comes her way.
Similarly, the team at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital wants to prepare our pet-loving community for seasonal threats. With equal measures of planning and caution, summer pet safety is easily attainable.
Too Hot to Handle
The biggest danger during a typical summer in San Antonio is the heat. It can be sweltering for folks in tank tops, but what about pets in fur coats? Regular grooming plays a big part in summer pet safety, and it’s tempting to want to shave your pet to prevent overheating. However, your pet’s coat is made to keep the body warm in winter and cool in summer, so we recommend a close summer trim instead.
Hot Box of Metal
Speaking of things that can be incredibly warm, a parked vehicle is no place for your pet. It’s one thing to go for a drive together, but to avoid the dangers associated with heatstroke, do not leave your pet unattended in your car. Even 10 minutes with the windows cracked can send temperatures inside a car soaring into triple digits. This can affect all pets, but it’s critical to understand that young and senior pets are especially vulnerable.
Hot Paws
Asphalt and concrete can be extremely hot in the middle of the day, and can easily scorch your pet’s soft paw pads. For the ultimate summer paw protection, stay off the sidewalk and stroll through a grassy park or trail instead. Keep exercise to the early morning or evening hours, and always provide relief from the sun and extra water.
Summer Pet Safety Tips
Because of our proximity to many fantastic outdoor adventures, please be aware of the following threats. Know how to apply what you’ve learned about summer pet safety, and contact us with any concerns or questions.
- Do not assume your pet knows how to swim before entering a lake or pool this summer. Always supervise his or her time in the water.
- The prevalence of insects during the summer should increase your vigilance. Watch that your pet doesn’t attempt to chase or eat bees, wasps, spiders, scorpions, or other bugs. Your pet’s parasite preventive should keep heartworm-infected mosquitos at bay, as well as fleas and ticks.
- Know how to identify rattlesnakes, copperheads, cottonmouths, and harlequin coral snakes. Do not stray from established trails and make sure your pet comes to you when called.
- Summer pet safety means being aware of potentially poisonous plants that are within your pet’s reach. Eradicate threats around your property, and know the signs of a pet poisoning.
Your pet’s wellness is important to us year round, and now is the time for fun in the sun and summer pet safety. As always, please contact us with any questions or concerns. Happy summer!