As it starts getting warmer, people and pets alike want to be spending more time outside with friends and families. It is important that we remember to care for the special needs of our four legged friends during these times.
When the weather is nice and we are enjoying the great out of doors, keep in mind that your dog is safest on a leash or in a fenced-in yard. Accidents with cars or encounters with other dogs can be avoided using these management tools. If your pet will be outside for extended periods of time, make sure he has access to cool shelter and fresh water. If possible, it is best to slowly acclimate your pet to warm weather over several days by short excursions into the heat. If it is necessary to go for extended walks on those hot days, walk early in the morning or early evening when the sun is less intense. Several shorter walks will be safest for your pet’s health. Even during those cooler times of day, your pet will need to cool down. Provide adequate water, air conditioning or a fan during that cool down period. Since our pets are so happy to play with us, it is our responsibility to set limits regarding play time. We know that the cool water is important, but care must be taken to not let your pet over drink since it can result in vomiting. Care should be taken in planning the feeding time as well surrounding exercise. It is best to restrict food intake within an hour either side of the exercise time.
If you are planning any parties and picnics, please remember to keep a watchful eye on your pets as they interact with your guests. Make sure that your pets are not eating any of the people food (whether from a hand or the table) to avoid digestive upsets for the dietary indiscretion. If your pet doesn’t do well in crowds, keep him confined or crated, away from all the party activities.
When traveling with your pets, make sure the places you are staying are pet friendly. Take time to get your pet used to traveling in the car. The safest place for a pet is in a carrier or in some sort of a restraint apparatus to prevent injury to both you and your pet. This will also avoid distracting the driver if your pet becomes over stimulated by activities or other vehicles outside of the car. If your pet gets car sick or has bad anxiety while in the car, please call the office to talk to a doctor about medications or other management techniques for traveling. Since traveling is stressful, be sure to take their food and water bowls and their regular food, treats and toys to avoid changes to their routine. This will make the trip as stress free as possible.
Thanks for choosing Brenford Animal Hospital for your pet’s care.
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