Summer Pet Protection

The onset of summer brings sunny days, warm temperatures and a plethora of outdoor activities for people and their pets. Here are some handy "animal health care" tips to follow to help you and your four-legged friends enjoy the sunny season.

* In preparation for summer fun, take your pet to a veterinarian for a check-up. Ensure your pet is on an appropriate preventative health care program including vaccinations, flea and tick control and where needed, heartworm prevention.

* Despite their protective fur coats, overexposure to the sun can be dangerous to pets. Exposure to sunlight should be limited, especially during the peak hours of sunlight from noon to 4 p.m . Cats and dogs should have access to water and shade at all times. Sunscreen can be applied to hairless breeds or breeds with thin coats.

* During the warm summer months, pets shold not be left unattended in a parked car, even if windows are left open. Excess heat can cause cats and dogs to experience heat stroke which can be fatal. Rapid breathing, loud panting, and staggering are signs of heat stroke. If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, take it to a shady, ventilated area and sponge the animal with cool water. Take your pet to a veterinarian for further care that may be required.

* When driving with pets, make sure that your vehicle´s windows are only slightly open so that your pet is not tempted to stick its head out. A pet who sticks its head out the window risks getting insects, dust and debris in its eyes.

* Cats and dogs aren´t the only animals that enjoy nice weather. Summertime also brings an increase in snakes, skunks, and porcupines. When walking your dog or cat, especially on campgrounds or in cottage-country, make sure your pet is on a leash and in sight at all times.

* To avoid contact with harmful poisons, don´t walk your pet in areas which may have been sprayed with insecticides or pesticides.

*Although most dogs love swimming, the potential for drowning still exists- even in backyard pools. Keep a watchful eye on your pet at all times.

* Ear and skin infections can result after prolonged periods in the water. To remove water from your pet´s ears, place a piece of cotton in the top of the ear canal and massage the lower ear to force water into the cotton.

* Most importantly, in case of emergency, keep your veterinarian´s phone number handy.