SUMMER TIPS FOR
HOT DOGS AND COOL CATS

Now that summer is here, people and their pets are spending more time outdoors.  The warm weather and soaring temperatures can pose a variety of hazards to your companion animals, so it is especially important to "summerize" your pet care routine to ensure your pets' safety.  St. Hubert's offers these hot weather pet tips:

• LEAVING YOUR PETS IN A PARKED CAR CAN BE A DEADLY MISTAKE-  On a warm day, your car can heat up like an oven (up to 120 degrees or more) in a matter of minutes - even with windows partially open.  Each year countless numbers of animals suffer brain damage, heatstroke and even death because their owners are unaware of how quickly a parked vehicle can heat up.  Pets cool themselves by panting, so it is easy to understand how breathing hot air can lead to serious problems.  Play it safe; on hot days, leave your pets at home.

          Act quickly if you spot a pet in distress inside a parked car.  Contact your local police, SPCA or animal shelter for assistance, and check with establishments nearby to see if the owner can be found.

• KEEP PLENTY OF FRESH WATER AVAILABLE-   Cool, fresh water for your pets is always very important, but even more so during the summer months.  Check your pet's water bowls frequently as excessive heat warms water and increases thirst, causing pets to drink more than in mild weather.  Evaporation can also deplete a water source.  Offer your pets a few bowls in case one gets tipped over.  Pets spending time outdoors should also have ample shade to protect them from the sun and, if possible, bring your cat or dog inside during the heat of the day.

    The warning signs of heat stroke include: heavy panting, glazed eyes or anxious expression, rapid pulse, dizziness and vomiting.  If you pet shows any of these signs, lower his body temperature immediately by moving him to a shaded area and cooling him with water.  Either immerse your pet or spray him thoroughly with a hose.  Never use ice.  Call your veterinarian immediately.

• INSECTS CARRY THREATENING DISEASES- Ticks, mosquitos and fleas are more than just nuisances during the summer months.  Inspect your pets' coats daily for ticks-which can carry Lyme Disease - and fleas which can transport tapeworms.  A mosquito's bite can be more than just uncomfortable - it can transmit heartworm larvae.  Consult your veterinarian about a Lyme Disease vaccine and effective methods for preventing flea infestation and heartworm.

• NEVER ALLOW DOGS TO RIDE UNSECURED IN THE BACK OF PICKUP TRUCKS- Dogs can't brace themselves the way people do and any sudden stops or turns could hurl you pet onto the highway and into oncoming traffic.  dogs can easily burn their foot pads on a hot metal floor, and eyes and ears can be injured by flying debris.  Pets are precious cargo and should ride inside the cab along with the driver.  If this is not possible, place your pet inside a crate and tie it securely to the walls of the truck bed.  Be certain your pet is wearing an i.d. tag - or some other form of identification.