The Heat Is On...Summertime Pet Care

"Summertime and the living is easy." Or so the song goes. Here are some tips to help make the long, hot summer a little easier for your companion animal.

Keeping Cool. Be sure to provide your pet with lots of fresh water all the time, but especially when it's hot. Evaluate the yard from the animal's point of view: is there at least one area with plenty of shade all day long? The only way a dog can cool her body is by panting, which requires cool, circulating air.

Heatstroke. Never leave your pet in a car on a hot day, even in the shade. The temperature can rapidly rise to well over 125 degrees, even with the windows slightly open. In just a few minutes, your pet can suffer heat stroke. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent brain damage and possible death. Animals who are older or overweight, and flat-faced breeds are most prone to heat stress because their bodies may adjust poorly.

Summer Diet. Animals usually eat less when it's hot, so the food should be of good quality. Be sure canned products are not left out for any length of time.

Hot Weather Haircuts. Bathing and grooming can make many breeds of dogs more comfortable as well as allowing for better flea control and easier brushing. However, dogs with naturally long coats should not be given short hair cuts that expose sensitive skin to the suns rays.

Flea & Tick Control. Check your dog or cat regularly for fleas and your dog for ticks as well. Both are more common in hot weather. For effective flea and tick control, your pet's entire environment must be treated, including yard, house and bedding. Bathe your dog, then treat with flea and tick powder, spray or dip. For cats, only use products designated safe for felines.

Foxtails. If you live in an area prone to foxtails, check your pet often, especially between the toes and in the ears. These barbed seeds of dried weeds can cause internal damage after working their way into the skin.

Heartworm. This life-threatening parasite is transmitted from dog to dog by mosquitoes. It affects the heart, lungs and other organs. Symptoms include coughing, weight loss, listlessness and rapid tiring. Talk to your vet about heartworm testing and preventative medicine.

Swimming Pools. Even good canine swimmers can drown if they are unable to get out of a swimming pool or irrigation channel. It's best to allow swimming only under supervision. Puppies and older dogs need special protection from falling into a pool.

With a little extra care, your animal companion will be safe and happy this summer!