USE GOOD JUDGMENT TO KEEP SUMMER FUN SAFE

By Anita Greenberg,DVM. member of Old Bridge Township Council since 2016

Summertime means more playtime outside, but higher temperatures mean increased risks for our furry friends.

Be vigilant to avoid overheating, sunburn and dehydration for our pets as well as ourselves. Pets do not sweat and can become overheated easily. Pets drink water and pant to bring down their body temperature.

A dog’s normal temperature is from 101 degrees to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Heatstroke results when the pet cannot regulate his body temperature, and it rises to 105 degrees or higher. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, labored breathing, drooling, bright red gums and weakness.

If your pet shows sign of heat exhaustion, move him to a cool area, place a cool damp towel over him, give him ice chips and cool water to drink, apply rubbing alcohol to the pads on his feet and get him to the vet ASAP.

Overweight pets, older pets, pets with respiratory problems or short-nosed dogs such as bulldogs, pugs, and boxers are more prone to exhibiting problems in the heat.

Limit exercising outdoors to early morning hours or evening hours.

While playing outside make sure cool drinking water is available as well as access to shade. Pets can get sunburn, and it is best to use a pet friendly sunscreen. White-coated pets are more susceptible to skin cancer.

Pay attention to hot streets and sidewalks. The foot pads of pets are not tough, but, in fact, they can burn and blister. A good rule to follow, is to put your hand on the pavement: If it is too hot for us, it is too hot for them. Walking on the grass is a good way to go.

Cookouts are fun but be careful your pets don’t come in contact with a hot grill or ingest the grease dripping, which may cause gastroenteritis. Do not give dogs corn on the cob, as the cob may get lodged in the stomach or intestine, causing a blockage necessitating surgery.

Have a fun, safe summer!