Weather Tips

Summer Tips

• DO NOT leave your pet in a parked vehicle during the summer -- temperatures can rise above 120 degrees on a sunny day!
• DO NOT exercise your pet in the heat of the day. Early morning or late evening is the preferred time for exercise.
• If you must walk your pet during the day, do not have your pet walk on hot asphalt. Remember, their paws are not protected by shoes, and they will burn. Check the temperature by holding your bare hand to the surface for at least five seconds.
• Take your pet to the veterinarian for a summer checkup which should include a test for heartworms. Check with your veterinarian about a safe, effective flea and tick control program.
• Keep your pets well groomed during the summer months, this will help prevent summer skin problems.
• If your pet will be outside during the day, always provide plenty of cool, clean water and plenty of shade.
• Watch for heat stress. Some signs include: panting, rapid pulse, anxiousness, staggering. If you notice any of these signs, treat by bathing in cool water, not ice water, or spraying with a hose and call your veterinarian immediately.

Winter Tips

• If you must leave your pet outside during the winter months, make sure it has adequate shelter to protect it from the elements.

• A dog house should be insulated and just large enough for the dog to fit in comfortably. It should be elevated off the ground and should have a covered door so heat cannot escape.
• Use cedar shavings, hay, or straw as bedding instead of blankets.
• Check your pet's water supply; make sure it is not frozen.
• Do not keep your pet inside a vehicle for long periods of time. In the winter time a vehicle retains the cold, like a freezer or refrigerator.
• If you walk your pet during the winter, make sure to keep away from rock salt. Along with damaging their paws, if they lap up any slush containing the rock salt they may vomit, have diarrhea and become dehydrated.