Ten Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe and Healthy

Summer heat can quickly injure or kill your dog. Whether they are outside in the back yard or locked in a car, dogs are especially susceptible to heatstroke. Roberta C. Kaman, co-founder of the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, has ten tips for helping to keep your dog safe and healthy during the hot summer months.
1. Visit your veterinarian early on to make certain that your dog is healthy and fit. Overweight dogs can suffer during the summer, so make sure that their health needs are met.
2. Regular exercise is an important component in keeping your dog healthy and happy. But take care not to exercise during the heat of the day. Mornings or evenings are best.
3. If left outside, make certain that your dog has plenty of shade available. And keep fresh water within reach of the dog.
4. Never leave your dog in a vehicle with the windows closed. Temperatures can quickly exceed 100 degrees and heatstroke can overcome your pet. Try to find shade for your vehicle and roll down the windows; or take your dog with you.
5. Hot pavement, including concrete, asphalt, and even beach sand can burn your dog’s feet during the summer months. Walk your pet on the grass or use dog boots to avoid foot problems.
6. You never take your eyes off your children at the beach. Cultivate the same habit with your dog, to keep them safe in the water and on the beach. Provide them with shade and fresh water whenever possible.
7. Keep your dogs off lawns that have been treated with chemicals or fertilizer for at least 24 hours.
8. Spring and summer is flea, tick and mosquito season. A number of commercial products are available to combat the problem but check with your veterinarian before applying any repellent on your dog.
9. If traveling with your dog over the summer, plan ahead. Check with your airline regarding their travel restrictions and with your hotels or campgrounds as to whether dogs are welcome in their facilities. Make sure to keep your dogs cool and comfortable during their travels.
10. Know the symptoms of heatstroke. They include heavy panting or rapid breathing, excessive drooling and trying to maintain balance. If you notice these symptoms, get your dog to a shady spot or bring them into the air conditioning. And try to give them small amounts of water. A dog that appears lethargic and refuses to move may be in an advanced state of heatstroke. Get them to a veterinarian immediately.
"Taking a few precautionary measures and being aware of heatstroke symptoms will help keep your dog healthy and you happy," said Kaman. "Have a safe and enjoyable summer."
Fidelco, based in Bloomfield , is New England ’s only guide dog school. It relies solely on the gifts and the generosity of individuals, foundations, corporations and organizations that partner with Fidelco to "Share the Vision."