Part 2 of 4 - Summer Dog Safety Series
Homemade Puppies, LLC strives to be your trusted source for not only connecting with your new fur-baby, but also answering the dog related questions you may have to enhance your experience with your dog/puppy. Each week our in house dog expert, Katie, answers your puppy and dog questions. Submit your canine questions to info@homemadepuppies.com.
As always puppies advertised with Homemade Puppies, LLC are always 100% raised in-home by responsible family breeders...never raised outside or in a barn, etc. No Puppy Mills, ever. We promise. www.homemadepuppies.com
Here is this week's blog from Katie!
The summer can be a fun time for dogs and their families. In this 4 part series we will talk about Summer Safety tips.
PART 2 - Outdoor Safety
When the temperatures warm up and the days get longer, many of us head outside to enjoy the great outdoors! Taking our dogs along on outdoor adventures can be fun for them and for us. Here are some tips to keep your dog safe while enjoying the outside world.
Update Vaccines
-When spending more time outside, our pets are more likely to encounter ever-present dangers such as rabies, distemper, Parvo and leptospirosis. All of these are diseases that are contracted by environmental elements that your dog may come into contact with. By having your dog vaccinated against these illnesses you will help ensure they have an enjoyable, healthy summer.
Stings and Bites
- The great outdoors has a lot of bugs! Many of them sting. Knowing what to do if your pet gets a sting or bite is important. If your pet is stung, remove the stinger, watch for swelling, and seek veterinary advice if there is any concern about the dog's breathing or the location of the sting. Having Benedryl on hand is a good idea. Ice can also be soothing to a sting. If your dog comes into contact with a snake or other animal and is bitten, seek veterinary care immediately. Beware of other hazardous animals such as porcupines and skunks. Keeping your pet on leash can help you control some of the wildlife your dog comes into contact with.
Flea/ Tick/ Heartworm Prevention
- Keeping your pet current on their preventatives during the summer is very important. More time outdoors means a greater chance your pet could pick up fleas or ticks or be bitten by a mosquito and exposed to Heartworms. Getting these products from your vet or a reputable source is import to make sure they work effectively. If you are unsure what products are best/ safe for your pet talk with your veterinarian.
Poisons
- Over the summer many people treat their lawns or tend to gardens. Most lawn and garden fertilizers are toxic to pets. Make sure to keep your dog out of lawns that you know have been recently treated and out of flower beds and gardens. Store fertilizers on a high shelf or in a cabinet where your dog cannot get into them. Know what plants are toxic to your dog. Signs of poisoning are tremors, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, seizures or agitation. If you suspect poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Bathing
- In summer when dogs are outdoors and playing they tend to get dirty! This leads us to bathe them more often. When bathing your dog always use a dog shampoo. Human shampoo can be too harsh for a dog's skin. Be sure to avoid getting shampoo into the dog's eyes. Also avoid excess water in their ears and be sure to dry out their ears after a bath. Over bathing can lead to dry, flakey skin and other skin problems such as hot spots. Drying and brushing your dog's coat thoroughly will help to ensure a heathy coat and skin.
Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. By taking a few precautions you and your dog can make happy memories all summer long!
Do you have a question for Katie? Submit your question(s) to info@homemadepuppies.com.
Don't forget to catch Katie's blog from last week: https://www.homemadepuppies.com/part-1-of-4-summer-dog-safety-series
