We all love spending the long summer days outdoors with our furry companions, but hot weather can spell danger. While there is certainly nothing wrong with taking your pet out for picnics, hikes, swimming, or running, keep in mind that warm weather can be dangerous.

To prevent your pet from overheating,
here is some advice from your veterinarian in Idaho Falls.

• Visit the vet for a spring or early-summer checkup.Make sure your pets get tested for fleas and heartworm if they aren’t on year-round preventative medication.
• Keep them hydrated. Give pets plenty of fresh, clean water and make sure they have a shady place to get out of the sun. Keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
• Know the symptoms of overheating in pets. These include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse.
• Never leave your animals alone in a parked vehicle.Not only can it lead to fatal heat stroke, it is illegal in several states!
• Do not leave pets unsupervised around a pool. Introduce your pets to water gradually and make sure they wear flotation devices when on boats.
• Unscreened windows are a potential hazard. Keep all unscreened windows or doors in your home closed, and make sure adjustable screens are tightly secured.
• Trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog. The layers of dogs’ coats protect them from overheating and sunburn.
• Don’t let your dog linger on hot asphalt. Being so close to the ground, your pooch’s body can heat up quickly, and sensitive paw pads can burn.
• Your lawn and garden can be dangerous. Commonly used rodenticides and lawn and garden insecticides can be harmful to cats and dogs if ingested.
• Food and drink commonly found at barbeques can be poisonous to pets. Keep alcoholic beverages away from pets, as they can cause intoxication, depression and comas. Snacks for your human friends should not be a treat for your pet.
• Please leave pets at home when you head out to Fourth of July celebrations. Many pets are fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared or disoriented. Keep them in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area of your home.

Perhaps the most important tip is to pay attention to your dog – you’ll know when he seems uncomfortable. Summer can be a great time to spend with your dog, but it’s important to keep these tips in mind! Questions? Call our office to speak with our veterinarian in Idaho Falls to schedule an appointment and together we’ll keep your pet safe all summer long.