Summer is a fantastic season for outdoor activities with your pets, but it also brings unique challenges and risks. Dr. Karen Becker, a renowned veterinarian specializing in pet safety and health, shares essential tips to help you navigate the summer safely with your furry friends. Follow these expert recommendations to prevent illness and injuries and ensure a joyful season for all.
1. Combat Fleas, Ticks, and Parasites
Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit diseases like Lyme, heartworm, and even bubonic plague. Dr. Becker advises, “Regular use of vet-approved flea and tick preventatives is crucial for keeping your pets safe during the warmer months.”
2. Prevent Overheating
Pets can quickly suffer from heatstroke if they don’t have access to shade and fresh water. “Always ensure your pets have a cool, shady spot to relax, and consider using cooling vests or mats to help them regulate their body temperature,” suggests Dr. Becker.
3. Avoid Leaving Pets in Cars
Temperatures in a parked car can soar to deadly levels within minutes, even with the windows cracked. Dr. Becker warns, “Never leave your pet in a parked car during the summer months, no matter how brief.”
4. Use Sun Protection
Just like humans, pets can get sunburned too, especially those with short or light-colored coats. Dr. Becker recommends pet-safe sunscreen, especially on ears and noses where fur is sparse. “Ensure the sunscreen is free from zinc oxide and salicylates, which can be toxic to pets.”
5. Guard Against Poisons
Summer is prime time for using products like insecticides, fertilizers, and antifreeze in the garden, which can be toxic to pets. “Store hazardous chemicals out of reach and always clean up any spills immediately to prevent accidental ingestion,” advises Dr. Becker.
6. Be Cautious with Wildlife
Encounters with wildlife can increase during summer outings. Dr. Becker recommends keeping your pet on a leash during hikes and being vigilant about the presence of venomous snakes or toxic toads.
7. Manage Outdoor Hazards
Burrs and foxtails can cause severe irritation or infection if they become embedded in your pet’s skin. “Check your pet’s coat and paws for any signs of these hazards after walks,” Dr. Becker suggests.
8. Travel Safely
If traveling by car, ensure your pets are secured in a carrier or with a safety harness. “This is not just about your pet’s safety, but also the safety of all passengers in the vehicle,” states Dr. Becker.
9. Always Carry Identification
Microchipping and collars with ID tags are vital for the quick return of lost pets. “Microchips have reunited thousands of pets with their owners,” says Dr. Becker, who strongly advocates for both forms of identification.
10. Keep a First Aid Kit
Having a pet-specific first aid kit is essential for addressing any injuries quickly. Dr. Becker also recommends keeping calming aids handy, as pets can become anxious during emergencies or from the chaos of holiday celebrations.
Conclusion
By following these top 10 tips from Dr. Karen Becker, you can enjoy a safer summer with your pets. Preparation is key to preventing emergencies and ensuring that the summer months are filled with pleasant memories rather than visits to the vet.
Incorporating advice from a trusted expert like Dr. Becker into this guide ensures that pet owners receive credible and reliable information, increasing their confidence in their pet care decisions during the summer months.
