As summer comes to a close, you want to savor every last minute of the fresh air, blooming flowers and sunny days. And who better to bring along on your adventures than man’s best friend? Here are a few tips to remember to keep your furry companion safe while you are outdoors.
We always make sure to lather on the SPF before heading out on a sunshiny day, but did you know that dogs can get sunburn too? Canines with short or mostly white fur are at higher risk of getting sunburn, which has the potential to lead to skin cancer. Protect your pooch by applying an SPF of at least 15 to the most sensitive areas, which include the tips of the ears, bridge of the nose and underbelly, if you know you will be out in the sun for an extended period of time.
Just imagine wearing a steamy fur coat in the hot summer heat. Well, your little doggie does not have the option of swapping a coat for a bikini, so be mindful of the dangers of heatstroke. Make sure shaded areas are close by and always have fresh water available to keep pets cool and hydrated.
The beautiful blooms that we enjoy on a serene nature walk may pose a serious hazard for your furry friend. Keep a close eye on your dog to prevent ingestion of toxic plants that have the potential to cause gastrointestinal issues.
Fleas and ticks pose a threat to both humans and animals, so protect yourself and your dog by taking precautionary measures to avoid transmitted diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Your veterinarian should be able to provide you with an appropriate recommendation for a flea and tick prevention program, but examining yourself and your dog after spending time in a wooded area is also advised.
Dogs can’t help but get their noses into anything and everything. And sometimes that includes some not-so-friendly creatures that you encounter while enjoying the nature. Again, it is highly recommended to keep a close eye on your dog and keep him or her on a leash whenever possible. Doing so will prevent unwanted encounters with animals such as skunks, as well as car accidents involving your pet.
If your pet is extremely active, it is a good idea to talk to your vet about a better diet plan to replenish nutrients. Energetic dogs burn more calories when outdoors and need to eat accordingly to preserve a healthy lifestyle.
In order to be prepared for all kinds of situations, it is best that your dog know the basic commands. “Drop it,” “Come” and “Stay” are all useful commands when dealing with unfriendly dogs or unknown specimens your canine companion may have discovered.
