The Dog Days of Summer are here!

 

There are 3 general considerations before taking our pets out for fun activities during the hot days of summer.  Most considerations rely on common sense, and are very similar to precautions we take for ourselves during extreme weather. 

 

• Wellness (basic health considerations) during outdoor activities and hot days.

›  Shade-In Wyoming, or anywhere the humidity is low and the sun is high, we are lucky to find relief from the summer heat in a little patch of shade.  Just like us, our pets need to get out of the sun at times and cool down.  Animals can also sunburn just like us.  There are products available that can be applied for sun screen/UV protection.

 

›  Water-Staying properly hydrated is critical to overall health and well-being, especially in the warmer months.  If we are thirsty, our pets are likely too.  Have plenty of water available during warm days and outdoor activities.  Travel bowls are compact and easy to pack in the car or packs for on the go water breaks. 

 

›  Skin/Hair- Dirty and matted hair keeps the heat in.  Flies can lay maggots around the skin and matted hair when dirt and feces accumulate.  A clean and properly groomed hair coat makes it easier for your pets to be comfortable in their own skin.

 

›  Rest-When the weather is nice, we take full advantage of the great outdoors-and before you know it, we have overdone it-resulting in sore muscles and occasionally overheating, that can lead to injury.  Some dogs will not stop fetching so give them rest in between activities.  When we hike with our dogs, they cover more area than us.  Watch how your pets are moving, and have them rest when we rest.

 

• Outdoor Etiquette

›  Share the path.  Walking our dogs is an enjoyable time for both dog and dog owner.  Leashes give us control over our dogs, and in most public areas are required.  Our dogs can take full advantage of the retractable leash, in order to sniff out every blade of grass.  Be aware when walking that others are close by, so that the trails and parks can be enjoyed by everyone. 

 

›  Feces pick up.  Accumulated feces along the trails attracts bugs, and just plain stinks! Bring bags along to pick up after your pets and keep the area clean.  Some walk ways have bag dispensers and collection containers, or re-use your plastic grocery bags. 

 

• Travel

›  Cars.  We all know it can get hot in a car when the windows are up.  Even partially open is just not enough to provide a safe and comfortable place for our pets.  Limit the amount of time your pets spend in the car in any weather, and NEVER leave your dog in a car during hot days. 

 

›  Motion sickness.  Motion sickness medication and sedatives can be you and your dogfs best friend.  Cleaning up vomit, or seeing your dog in distress, is not fun.  Consult with your veterinarian before travel to see what would be the best for your pet.  Give 1/2 to 1 hour before traveling.

 

› Boarding.  Many times our pets are not able to join us on our trips, and boarding is a safe and reliable alternative.  Boarding facilities can be very busy during peak travel times-be sure to remember planning for your pets when you make travel plans to assure they get first class treatment.