Summer
- Dogs can inhale sand and salt water which is very dangerous – it can block their stomachs & intestinal tracks and cause nausea
- Test hot concrete before you walk your dog during the summer – if you can’t walk on it with your bare feet then it is too hot for your dog!
- Have an umbrella, fresh cold water in a stainless steel water bottle, and towels
- Doggie sunglasses can be very useful
- Lakes and rivers can have parasites and bacteria so stay aware of exposure
- Learn about insect bites and how to treat them
- Cooling beds and cooling towels can help cool dogs off
- Administer sunscreen on lighter skinned dogs (make sure it does not contain zinc)
- If you’re in an area with snakes, learn how to train your dog to avoid them and if bitten, know where to take them and which local vet has rattle snake venom medication
- Administer tick and flea medication and always check for ticks
- Consider all vacation spots and if they’re appropriate for your dog
- Consider booties when hiking with your dog – a lot of terrain is too tough for their paws
- Many working dogs can easily wear a doggie backpack which gives them a “job” to do and can help you carry camping gear!
- Be careful with your dog near fire pits and hot coals
July 4th
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- When the fireworks go off, act normal and ignore them, don’t try and hug or shield your dog. That’ll only show them that there is something to be afraid of and to be shielded from. Best thing to do is to act normal and NOT reinforce the behavior. Dogs pick up on your energy.
- Vets can prescribe sedatives to help with stress
- A thunder shirt can help ease stress
- Using a diffuser with essential oils can help ease stress
- Turn up the TV and the AC to drown out the noise
- Feed your dog earlier in the evening so tha the does not miss dinner if fireworks go off and scare him
- If you have a basement or a place that is quieter and cooler, consider having your dog rest in there, but don’t force him in that space and be sure to introduce him to the space weeks before the event so he is used to it
- Make sure your dog has plenty of water and stays hydrated
Fall
Be wary of mold and bacteria from fallen leaves
Muddy or standing water can attract parasites and bacteria which can cause illness and death
Winter
How do you properly walk and play with your dog in the snow
Purchase coats and sweaters
Spring
Be careful when you plant new flower and plants in your yard – check to make sure they are not poisonous
Antifreeze is a very toxic chemical. Be sure your dog is not allowed free run near a driveway or other area where cars may drip fluid.
