Summer is a great time for your dog or cat. It is warm, and there are ample opportunities to play outside and enjoy the sunshine. Most dogs love to relax on the warm grass, and even outdoor cats tend to especially enjoy the warm summer months when they can roam outdoors and bask in the good weather.
However, there are certain summer dangers for pets that need to be addressed. Pet owners love their pets and want to put off writing online pet memorials for as long as possible, so protecting against these summer dangers should be a top priority.
One of the major dangers to be aware of is poisonous plants. In areas where the seasons change and things primarily grow in the summer, summertime can be a time when gardens flourish. You outdoor dog or cat, perhaps unused to these new plants, may become curious and try to taste or eat the plants. For the most part this is harmless, however some species of ferns, many bulb plants, lilies, vines and garden perennials can be poisonous to dogs and cats.
Visit the ASPCA website for a list of plants that are poisonous to dogs and cats, in order to protect your plant. Prevention is the best step towards prolonging the day when you will need to purchase pet grave markers or pet urns, and a simple surveying of your garden can help put that day off for as long as possible.Another summer danger is the swimming pool. Dogs or cats may be attracted to the cool water on hot days. While dogs can swim, and most cats tend to stray from water, there is still a risk that your animal will fall in the pool and be unable to get out. If you have a pool in your back yard, you should ensure that your dog is able to get up the steps and out of the pool on its own, in case it ever falls in. If your dog can't get up the steps, it may be advisable to install a pet ramp and teach your dog or cat how to use it. This simple action can prevent your pets untimely death and put off the day when you will eventually have to say goodbye to your pet and be left only with a pet memorial.
Finally, you should be aware of the possibility of heatstroke. Do not leave your dog outside without proper shelter and water, and be cautious of taking your animal for walks on very hot days. Checking the heat index before you take a dog for a walk is important, as is providing water while on the walk. Most dogs will drink from a water bottle, so if you plan to be gone for long periods of time or engage in outdoor play on hot days, it might be a good idea to teach your dog this skill to ensure he always has access to hydration no matter where you are. Giving your dog ice cubes to chew can be another great way of ensuring your dog keeps cool and hydrated.
Summer Dangers For Pets