We all love being outside on glorious sunny days with our furry companions but we need to keep in mind that sometimes hot weather can cause problems, so here are a few tips for keeping your pets safe this summer.

If your pets aren’t up to date with their parasite control and vaccinations, bring them for a check up or call us for advice on this. Because they are out and about so much during the warmer weather, this increases the risk of fleas, worms, ticks and mites.

Providing areas of shade, plenty of fresh drinking water and even paddling pools will decrease their chances of dehydration and heat stroke but never leave your dog unsupervised around pools and ponds. Be careful not to over exercise and keep them indoors when it’s extremely hot.
Remember, dogs pant in order to regulate their body temperature so breeds with short noses, such as Pugs and Shih Tzu’s will be more susceptible to heat stroke as they cannot pant as effectively as those with longer noses. Also, elderly animals and animals with medical conditions will also be more susceptible.

Warmer weather also brings out the gardener in us. However, keep in mind the chemicals we use in and around our gardens. Things like slug bait, mouse and rat bait and garden insecticides are highly toxic to our pets.

Follow these tips to make sure you and your pets enjoy a wonderful summer together.