We love our dogs here at Schwartz-Stanton Group. We have such a variety too including Finn (a lab/sharpei mix), Sam (a german shephard mix) Jesse (a border collie mix), Rudy (a blue heeler/australian cattle dog mix) and Bentley, the pure bred chow chow.   Summer is time for lots of fun and a great time to enjoy with your dog.  You’ll be spending more time outdoors.  While all this fun is good, it is also the time when you pet is at risk for heat-related illness and injury.    Here are some tips to keep your dog cool but this does not replace advice or care from a veterinarian.  If your pet shows any signs of distress or injury contact your vet immediately.

Sunburn - Pets can get sunburned.  Short-haired pets, white and lightly colored pets are especially susceptible.   Long-term exposure can lead to skin damage and sometimes even skin cancer.  If your pet is fair-haired, limit the amount of time your pet is in direct sunlight and that includes sitting in a sunny window.

Heat Stroke – Watch for signs of heat stroke.  This includes rapid panting, hot skin, twitching muscles.  Heat stroke or heat stress can happen quickly and it can be fatal.   To prevent heat stroke, keep you pet indoors during the high heat of midday.  Be sure to have the air conditioning on and/or place your pet in a well ventilated area with circulating fans.  If you pet show signs of heat stroke get your pet to your veterinarian as soon as possible.  Large double-coated breeds, dogs breed for cold climates and those with short faces are at higher risk.

Water - Always provide your dog with plenty of fresh water.

Exercise - Refrain from exercising your dog during the hottest part of the day.  Try switching your daily walks to early morning or after sundown when the weather is cooler.  Watch for hot pavement and sandy beaches. . .paws can burn easily.

Vaccinations – Be sure you vaccinations are current and talk to your vet about a preventative treatment program for fleas and ticks.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car – Heat is heat even when parked in the shade with the windows open.  Don’t leave your dog in a parked car during the summer.  It is dangerous and it puts your dog at risk.

Provide Shade – If you dog loves to lounge in the yard or hang out of the deck, be sure there is a shady place for your dog to enjoy and provide plenty of water.

Have fun this summer.

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