Summer Pet Care

Cats and Kittens. The Anti-Cruelty Society strongly suggests that cats be kept inside at all times, year-round. Safe inside, your cat will be protected from the many life-threatening dangers always present outside the home. Inside cats get enough exercise and live a longer and healthier life. Remember that a kitten is more vulnerable than an adult cat and requires more supervision.

Dogs and Puppies. The Anti-Cruelty Society strongly suggests that dogs live inside the home, year-round, as a member of the family. The exception would be while on walks for elimination and exercise, at which times the dog should be leashed or contained within a fenced, supervised yard. Remember that a puppy is more vulnerable than an adult dog and requires constant supervision.

• Shelter. While outside, all dogs must have a shady area to rest. Without shelter from the sun and heat, an animal can suffer heatstroke and die.
• Water. Make sure your companion animals have plenty of fresh, clean water in a secure, non-tip dish at all times. Animals need water every day, throughout the day, to survive. During especially hot weather, you may consider putting out several bowls of water, perhaps with an ice cube in each.
• Food. In warm weather, many companion animals are less active and, therefore, may eat less. Check with your veterinarian about the best diet for your animal(s).
• Cars. Going for a ride in the car can be fun, but never leave an animal in a parked car in warm weather. Even with windows open, the temperature inside can reach well over 100E very rapidly. Your animal could die within a few minutes! Furthermore, an animal left unattended anywhere can easily be stolen.
• Engine Coolant. Animals are attracted to this substance by its sweet taste. It can be fatal if ingested, so keep all engine coolant bottles out of your companion animal's reach. Also be sure to clean up any spills in your garage or driveway immediately. If your dog or cat should swallow engine coolant--or any poison--contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Heatstroke. If your companion animal gets too hot, they could suffer heatstroke. Signs include: difficult, then rapid breathing; reddened tongue and gums; a blank stare; or sudden collapse. EMERGENCY ACTION IS NECESSARY OR YOUR ANIMAL MAY DIE! Bring the body temperature down immediately by covering them with cool (not cold or ice) water until excessive panting stops. Even if the animal appears to recover, take them to a veterinarian for a complete examination.
• Exercise. When it's hot, try to limit exercise to the cooler hours in the morning or evening. Remember, the normal body temperature for dogs and cats is higher than ours, they cool-off less effectively, and they are covered with fur.
• Panting. Companion animals cool off by panting, and perspiring through their foot pads. However, be on the lookout for excessive panting or drooling--this may be a sign of heatstroke or other distress.
• Heartworm. Heartworms are internal parasites that are spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Only dogs contract heartworms; cats are not in danger. Dogs with heartworms can suffer serious health complications and eventually will die from heart failure. Each spring your dog should be tested for heartworms. Then, during the spring, summer and fall, your dog should be on heartworm preventative prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Grooming. Regular brushing keeps your companion animal's skin and coat healthy and clean between baths. For bathing, use only dog or cat specific shampoos and do not bathe them too frequently. Too many baths can lead to dry skin.
• Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests. Fleas and ticks can lead to a variety of health problems for your animal. Use preventative measures or contact a professional groomer to avoid these parasites. Check your animal daily, especially around the ears and neck, between the toes, and around the back legs. If an infestation occurs, contact your veterinarian for advice. Dogs that spend a lot of time outside in the summer can also suffer from fly bites, especially around the ears. Ask your veterinarian or pet supply store about fly repellent made for dogs.
• Skin Diseases. Your companion animals may be more sensitive to skin problems in warm weather. If your animal is scratching more than usual, has hair loss, or has raw skin, contact your veterinarian for advice and treatment.