Taking Care of your Dog during the Summer

As we enter the hot summer months, taking good care of your dog is important. Keep your canine companions healthy by remembering these basic tips:

Heat:

• When pets are outside, be sure they have plenty of fresh water and access to shady areas.

• Don’t leave your dog inside a car on hot days.

• Exercise your dog only during the coolest times of the day.

• Watch for sunburn. Dogs are susceptible to sunburn just like people, especially those with short hair, pink skin, and white hair. Limit their exposure when the sun is the strongest and apply sunblock to ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.

Lyme disease:

• Get a yearly Lyme disease vaccination from your vet.

• If you have a furry dog, comb him with a fine-toothed, light-colored comb. Inspect the comb for ticks, which are often tiny and easy to miss.

• Inspect all areas, including the ears and face.

• If you find a tick is attached to the skin, pull it out with tweezers.

• Wash the area with soap and water. Monitor it for signs of infection. If your dog gets Lyme disease, a rash shaped like a bull’s eye will appear at the site three to 32 days after he’s been bitten.

• Watch for symptoms like sudden, severe pain, lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, and depression.