PAWS Magazine

Issue 58, Summer 2004

The Dog Days of Summer

Summer has arrived. These are the days we wait for all year to explore glorious Washington landscapes with our families and friends—companion animals included. Whether you are camping or hiking in the great outdoors or simply enjoying an afternoon in your neighborhood, here are some tips to help you and your animals enjoy a safe, fun summer.

• Always keep plenty of fresh, clean water available for your animals, even if they’re sitting around at home. Water helps animals keep cool.

• Never leave your animal in a car when it’s warm outside. A car can rise to a deadly 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even with the windows partly rolled down.
• Small animals, like rabbits and guinea pigs are particularly susceptible to heat. Make sure the rooms where they live are well ventilated and have circulating air, but avoid blowing fans in their cages. If it’s really hot, place frozen water bottles covered with towels in their spaces.
• Be careful not to overwork your dog during hikes and walks, especially elderly and overweight dogs and dogs with shorter noses like pugs or bulldogs. Get exercise in the cooler morning or evening hours instead of the middle of the day.
• When exploring the back woods and wild areas, keep your dog on a leash. This is not just for the safety of your dog but also for the safety of wildlife.
• To allow your kitty some outdoor summer fun, build a safe enclosed playpen or supervise her playtime in your fenced back yard.
• Protect your companion animals with effective parasite control. Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes that carry disease are rampant in the summer. Check with your veterinarian about the safest parasite control methods for your animal.
• Keep your animals far away from the hot grill and tempting sweets that come with backyard summer parties and camping trips. Many foods safe for people are dangerous to animals.
• Last, but not least, take advantage of the summer to enjoy time with your animals. They deserve and need your love and attention.

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