DOG TRAINING EQUIPMENT

Summer is here and with it comes the hot weather. As much as we suffer due to the heat, it can be much worse for a pet that wears a fur coat all the time. Fortunately, some easy things will make the summer much more enjoyable for your pet!

Never Leave Your Pet in the Car

As cool as it may seem outside the car, leaving your pet in the car can be extremely dangerous and even deadly. Even in the shade, the temperature inside a car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes. That is unhealthy for any dog or cat to be in. Dogs can't sweat and so all of their ability to cool off comes from panting and through the pads of their feet. An animal can suffer from heath stroke, heat exhaustion, and a variety of other ailments in a matter of minutes. As hard as it is to see the pet left at home, it's safer for them in the long run.

Always Have Plenty of Water Available

In the summer, everyone needs more water, humans and animals alike. It is very important to give your pet plenty of water and always have lots of water available. Even if an animal is inside all day, he or she will still appreciate extra water.

Avoid the Sun

While it may sound funny because of their fur coats, animals can get sunburns too. This is particularly common in animals with light fur and not a lot of it. Animals can experience peeling, pain, and itchy skin due to sunburn just like people. For this reason, it is important to apply sunscreen to the tips of a dog's ears, its nose, and the edges of the lips. Even with sunscreen, it is safer to keep your pet inside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Get Rid of Tangles

A dog's fur is designed to assist the dog in staying cool by releasing heat from the body. Unfortunately, when the fur is tangled or matted, it can't keep the dog cool and will actually trap heat close to the body. It is very important to keep the fur tangle free so that the dog won't get overheated. If you don't have the time to keep the dog's fur perfectly brushed all the time or the fur is extra thick, it may make sense to save the dog for the summer.

Be On the Lookout for Anti-Freeze

In the heat, a dog may be tempted to drink from puddles. This is not recommended as puddles can contain many harmful fluids like anti-freeze, oil, and gasoline. It is easier to carry water with you than rush the dog to the emergency vet because it has ingested something toxic.

If you would like more information on caring for your pet in the summer, please visit http://www.austinveterinarianclinics.com.