Safety Tips for Pet Owners
Never leave your pet in an unattended car. On warm days, the temperature
inside the vehicle can rise to 120 degrees in minutes, even with the windows
slightly open.
When taking a pet on a car ride, use a pet safety harness. If an accident
occurs, a pet safety harness can ensure that every passenger is protected. If
your dog must ride in the back of a pickup truck, make sure that he or she is
in a crate that is secured to the bed of the truck.
Do not travel with your pet on an airplane unless it's absolutely necessary. If
you plan on bringing your pet on vacation, consider driving to your destination.
Otherwise, think about leaving your pet behind under the care of a pet sitter
or boarding kennel.
Only use veterinarian-approved flea and tick control products.
Over-the-counter products may contain ingredients that have been found to
harm pets.
Make sure that your pet is protected from heartworm. Dogs and cats are at
higher risk of contracting heartworm during the summer because there is an
increase of mosquitoes, which transfer the disease.
Protect your pet from the heat by providing large amounts of fresh water and
keeping them indoors. Make sure there is shade when they are spending time
outside.
On hot days, limit your pet's exercise to the early morning or evening hours.
Also, keep in mind that the hot asphalt can burn your pet's paws.
Learn to identify the signs of heat stress: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid
pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting or a deep red or purple
tongue. If your pet becomes overheated, immediately lower his/her body
temperature by applying cool (not cold) water over his/her body, and giving
small amounts of water or ice cubes. Most importantly, get immediate help
from a veterinarian.
Never leave your pet unattended around a pool. Tragedy can occur if he/she
does not know how to exit the pool.
Make sure your pet always wears a collar with an updated identification tag.
Even if your pet has an implanted microchip, some animal shelters and
humane societies may not have a universal scanner that can read every brand.
Spay or neuter your pet.
Do not apply any sunscreen or insect repellent product to your pet unless it is
labeled specifically for use on animals.
Always keep matches and lighter fluid out of your pet's reach. Certain types
of matches, for example, contain chlorates, which could potentially damage
blood cells and result in difficulty breathing.
(Sources: Humane Society of the United States and The American Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)