Tag Archive for 'pet safety'

Dog Days of Summer

Published on August 17, 2010 in HAYNEEDLE and PETS & ANIMALS. 1 Comment Tags: , , , , , , .

Whew! It’s been a hot one so far this August. With kids heading back to school soon and Husker football just around the corner, it would seem that summer is coming to an end…sigh…until you go outside. As I type, the heat index for today (and the rest of the week) is a refreshing 110 degrees. Viva la Summer!

While we humans can wear shorts and tank tops to help stay cool, imagine how this heat feels to our furry and fuzzy buddies. Here’s how to help your best friend stay cool and comfortable while outdoors this summer:

Relief from Summer Heat
A dog’s normal body temperature runs from 100.5°F to 102.5°F. Considering he’s covered in fur, he can get hot very quickly. If your dog is outdoors for long periods during the day, provide access to a shaded area for relief from the heat either under a tree or in a dog house. Make sure there’s plenty of fresh, clean water left in a shady area available at all times. If your dog is a longer haired breed, a summer cut can help provide some relief. For those times when your dog wants to be really stylish about staying cool, a cooling bandana might be right up his alley!

Dog in Dog House

Sunburn
Mom always said to wear sunscreen, and remember that dogs can get sunburned too. Dogs with light coloring, pale noses or shaved short summer hair cuts are especially prone to sunburn. There are several pet safe sunscreens available, so be sure to choose one that won’t be harmful if it gets licked off.

“I’ll Just be a Minute”
Many people bring their dogs with them while running errands. I understand you love your dog and want him with you as much as possible! Unfortunately, though, in the summer this practice can be deadly. A dog can only withstand a high body temperature for a short time before suffering nerve damage, heart problems, liver damage, brain damage or even death. In only 10 minutes the temperature in a car can rise an additional 19°F! Cracking your car windows has little effect on the vehicle’s internal temperature.* DO NOT leave your dog in the car in the summer heat, even for “just a minute.” If you see a dog left in a car, don’t be afraid to call your local Humane Society or police department.
*Source MyDogIsCool.com.

Keep these tips in mind and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat stroke to help keep your dog safe, healthy, and happy for many summers to come!

Lisa E

I welcome your feedback. Just click into this post to leave comments, questions or suggestions.
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Summer Pet Safety Tips

Published on July 9, 2010 in HAYNEEDLE and PETS & ANIMALS. 2 Comments Tags: , , , , , .

Summer is a great time for being outside with family, friends, and your dog. After spending the holiday weekend at the lake with family, I was inspired to write about some of the safety hazards that many adults see as common sense when it comes to children, but seem to overlook when it comes to the family dog.

Whether you are grilling, swimming, or just enjoying the great outdoors, many pet owners like to include their dogs in these summer pastimes. Here’s how to make sure your pet stays safe this summer.

Grilling
The smell of burgers and hot dogs cooking is even more irresistible to dogs than it is to us, so don’t forget to keep an eye on pets when grilling out this summer. Before you know it they can try to sneak food from the grill just like they might with food on the counter, resulting in burnt paws, noses, and tongues. Be especially mindful of smaller camping grills that sit lower to the ground.

Walking
During the summer months, pavement and sand can get extremely hot and burn the pads of your dog’s feet. Try taking your dog on walks in the morning or evening when the pavement is cooler. You can also encourage your dog to walk on the grass or try dog booties to help protect his paws. If it is too hot for your bare feet, it is probably too hot for their bare paws. Always bring water on your walks for both you and your pet. Some dog walkers suggest bringing a collapsible cup for your dog to drink from. Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion in your pet and stop in the shade for a break if you or your pet have any symptoms.

Swimming
If your dog likes to swim it can be a great way for him to get some exercise and cool off from the summer heat. It is important to keep an eye on your dog when he is in the pool or lake, just like you would with children. Make sure there is a place available for your dog to get out of the water easily when he is ready. Dog friendly ladders are available for the pool, dock or boat so your dog can easily get out of the water. Dog life jackets are also available to help make sure your dog stays afloat if he should get too tired to swim. Also, make sure kids know never to hang onto or try to “ride” your dog while it is in the water.

Boating Dog in Lifejacket
Photo by puppypfd

Stay mindful so both you and your pet can enjoy the activities summer has to offer!

Lisa E

I welcome your feedback. Just click into this post to leave comments, questions or suggestions.
Follow me on Twitter! @hayneedlepets