Hope Springs Kennels: Tips

HELP YOUR PET BE COOL THIS SUMMER

It's great to enjoy summer with your pet. But it's also the time when they have the greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems. So here are some ups on keeping things cool this summer.

WATCH FOR SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE

Rapid panting, hot skin, twitching muscles and/or a dazed look. Wrap them in a towel soaked with cool, not cold, water. In severe cases, place them in the bathtub. Heatstroke can be fatal. See your vet as soon as possible.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN A PARKED CAR

Not even if you crack the windows or park in the shade. On a 70 degree day, the car temperature can rise above 150 degrees in minutes. It's extremely dangerous and the number one cause of heatstroke.

KEEP VACCINATIONS UP-TO-DATE

This is the time when most pets come in contact with other animals, at parks, campgrounds, etc.

ALWAYS PROVIDE PLENTY OF FRESH WATER

Dogs can only sweat through the pads of their feet and by panting. Evaporation from the wet surfaces of their mouth and nose helps lower body temperature.

STOP EXTERNAL PARASITES BEFORE THEY BITE

Fleas, ticks and ear mites thrive in warm, humid environments. See your vet for a preventative program. To keep biting flies away from your dog's ears, apply oil (Avon's Skin So Soft works GREAT), the flies can't stand it!

ALSO AVOID INTERNAL PARASITES

Be sure your dog has been heartworm tested and is on a preventive. Remember that mosquitos are a carrier of heartworm.

WATCH FOR HOT PAVEMENT AND BEACHES

Sensitive paws burn easily.

FIND A COOL SPOT

For indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a child-proof fan or air conditioner. Provide shade for outdoor pets. And remember, a gentle sprinkle from a hose is always appreciated.

THE STREETS AREN'T SAFE

Don't let your pet roam. but just in case -- make sure your pet is licensed. Vets see twice as many fight injuries and bite wounds in summer. And, of course, your pet is no match for a car.

THE YARD ISN'T ALWAYS SAFE, EITHER

Be cautious of pesticides and herbicides. Read the precautions for lawn chemicals carefully and keep pets away from newly-treated yards. If pets come in contact with chemicals, wash their feet, abdomen and chest thoroughly, then contact your vet.

BRUSH AFTER EVERY HEEL

Frequent brushing provides early warning of parasites and skin infections by lifting the coat, permitting a view of the skin below.

IT'S ALLERGY SEASON

People sneeze. Pets scratch. Common pet allergies include pollen, grass, and weeds. If your pet scratches excessively or chews at its paws, bring it in for an exam. Your vet can design a program to help.

WATCH THE EXCERCISE AND DIET

Don't encourage excercise during the hottest part of the day. And let them eat less - overeating can lead to overheating.

NOT EVERY DOG PADDLES WELL

Animals in the water for the first time should be eased in, never thrown or chased in. Don't let them drink from pools, streams or the ocean. If they do swim, rinse them off. Salt and minerals can damage a dog's coat.

SUNBURN IS NO DAY AT THE BEACH

It hurts. Short-haired pets and those with pink skin and white hair are especially susceptible. Limit their exposure.