The Heat is On! Keep Your Furry Friends Safe and Healthy

The Seeing Eye has posted some great summer safety tips for keeping your dog protected; and the timing couldn't be better with the heat wave that is currently gripping more than half of the United States.

With high humidity and daily temperatures well into the 90's, we're being extra careful with Vinson, walking him early in the morning or at dusk, ensuring he has plenty of water and ice chips and keeping him in air conditioning in the car, at work and at home.

The following tips are provided by The Seeing Eye:

• Keep it Cool:
  If you leave your pup outdoors, whether you are there or not, he or she could suffer the effects of too much heat faster than a human. Keep your dog inside where it can stay cool. If you must take your dog out into the heat, bring along a spray bottle to cool him/her down, make sure you have plenty of water, and try to stay in the shade when possible.
• Boots aren’t Just Good for Cold Weather:
  When walking outside, if the ground heats up it can burn your dog’s feet. Boots will protect your dog’s pads from these hot surfaces. A good way to decide if booties are needed is to put your hand on the sidewalk. If the ground is too hot for you to keep your hand on for very long then it is most likely too hot for your dog’s feet.
• After a Swim
  Be sure to rinse your dog off thoroughly to get rid of any salt, chlorine and/or bacteria. Make sure you dry your dog thoroughly, even after baths, so they do not develop hot spots. Be sure to apply an ear cleaner and dry both ears to prevent an ear infection. Discourage your dog from walking through or drinking from a creek, or any standing water which could possibly have parasites.
• Do Not Overdo Strenuous Activity
  Do not feed your pup before exercise and try to keep your dog calm on hot days. Try to go out early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are not as hot. Heat exhaustion can set in quickly for dogs because they are unable to perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Do not leave your dogs in hot cars. The inside of a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even if it is parked in the shade or the windows are cracked.
• Debug your Dog
  Be sure to check your dog for fleas and ticks daily. Ask your veterinarian about flea and tick preventatives for your pet.
• Beware of Toxic Substances
  Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal to your dog.
• Cruise with Care
  When driving, it is best to secure your dog in a crate to protect him/her in the event of an accident. Dogs are more likely to be injured or lost if they are riding loose.