Wednesday, June 30, 2010

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

With the dog days of summer just ahead of us, it is important to remember that your furbabies can overheat and have problems. Here are a few tips to think about as we approach the hottest weather in New England.
1. Always keep fresh water available for your dog.
2. When traveling, provide water often. A bunny feeder water bottle hooked to the side of the crate works well. Dog waters can be found commercially.
3. Be sure your dog eats. Nutrition came combat hypoglycemia and being overheated and excessive panting can deplete their glucose (sugar) in their bodies. Offer small more frequent meals. At a cookout? Small pieces of chicken, watermellon or cheese work well.
4. Never leave your dog in the car even with the windows cracked.! The temperature in a car in the hot sun can rise very quickly to life threatening temperatures. Every year we hear about pets that suffocate from the heat.
5. If you think your dog is overheating, press cold/ice packs against their belly. This will help them cool down.
6. Saturate a towel with cold water and wrap your dog in it especially over the top of the head and ears.
7. Keep them shaded if possible. an umbrella helps in the scorching sun.
8. Take them into the water and submerse their body to cool them down. Dont make them swim, it can cause more stress.
9. Use fans to circulate the air if they are left in a crate or x-pen. Crate fans are available commercially as well.
10. A nice short haircut for the summer months is always helpful.......dont forget...that long coat will grow back.
Enjoy these tips and have a wonderful safe summer.

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