Although summer is the most desired season of the year for the majority of us, it has it’s downsides. We love summer because we can finally go for a vacation, enjoy a good swim etc.
Not the same enthusiasm is manifested in our pets with the arrival of summer. Some of our favorite things to do during some can be very stressful for our fury friends affecting their mental and physical health.
Here are 10 tips for a safe and stress free summer.
#1 The heat is very unbearable for our dogs. They become dehydrated and hours of exposure can lead to heatstroke. This can be prevented by keeping our pets in cool environments, with fresh water available to them. While outside find areas that provide some kind of shade for them to keep cool.
#2 Even dogs get sunburned. Always use a pet sunscreen on your pup to keep him protected during those long walks in the sun. Their paws can also be burned because of the heat on pavement. So try to avoid those peak hours during the day.
#3 When planing a road trip with the family, make sure to prepare your dog too with all that he will need. This includes plenty of water packed, avoid feeding your pup while on the road, keep him secured in the car. If you are going to put your pet on a crate make sure it is comfortable and big enough for him.
#4 Fireworks can be very stressful for your dog.Exposure can result in severe burns or they may experience trauma due to the loud noise they cause, and some fireworks have materials that can poison or irritate your pet. Make sure to keep them safe inside when fireworks are shown in the sky.
#5 Some dog exhibit destructive, anxious or even abnormal behavior when they hear thunderstorms. You can try a dab of lavender oil to ear tips since it has calming effects. Another home remedy is the use of drier sheets to decrease the buildup of static electricity caused by the thunderstorm.
#6 Pets hate bug bites as much as we do. Can you blame them?
#7 BBQs and all the food available there is very harmful for your pet. As you probably know food eaten from humans may cause severe digestive ailments to your pet, especially if your pet is old. Keep grapes, onions, alcohol, chocolate out of their reach.
#8 Always wear a pet-life vest to your dog so he/she can be safe while enjoying a good swim on the ocean, sea or lake.
#9 With all the picnics, hikes and activities done outdoor during the summer increase the risk of your pups safety. They can get lost or run away when you are not attentive. Make sure to keep an eye on your pet at all times.
#10 While we enjoy a vacation aboard, it may be a very stressful experience for our pets. Some of them can even get ill due to the change of the environment, water and food. There are pet sitters that take care of them while you go away. This away you get to enjoy your off time at the max and your pet is safe and happy in his home.
