July 21, 2006

Ask the Animal Behaviorist

Summertime pet tips offered

By Maureen Strenfel
Animal Behaviorist, Humane Society Silicon Valley

Q: Now that summer is here, do you have any tips to help keep my pet safe and happy during the hot months? In particular, I’m worried about foxtails and fleas.

A: Although most people look forward to summer with great anticipation, the outlook for pets is not as promising. There are many trouble spots for pets, so here are some helpful tips to keep them healthy and happy during the hot weather.

Heatstroke
This is a prevalent summertime risk. Symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, a glazed expression in dogs, and an anxious look with cats. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect that your pet is suffering from heatstroke. To avoid situations that could bring on heatstroke, never leave your pet in the car alone, don’t give your pet short haircuts (they could get sunburned), and make sure that your pet always has access to shade and water.

Exercise
Before beginning an exercise program, check with your veterinarian to make sure that your pet is physically capable of your exercise plan, especially with older, overweight, arthritic, or short-faced dogs. Always keep your dog on a leash and start slowly. Limit your exercise to early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat, and make sure that you dog isn’t overheating. Remember that pets don’t wear shoes and hot sidewalks can burn the pads of their feet!

Foxtails
There barbed seeds of dried grasses and weeds can be dangerous to your pet. They enter into your pet’s nose, eyes, ears, and feet, and then can travel deeper throughout the body of your pet. If your pet is pawing at their eyes or ears, squinting, rubbing their head on the ground, experiencing violent sneezing, or shows signs of small inflamed spots on the skins, your pet may have foxtails and should see the veterinarian immediately. Keep your yard clear of weeds and examine your pets daily, especially after being outdoors.

Swimming Pools
Make sure that your pets are always attended when they go swimming. Not all dogs like water or are good swimmers. No matter how well your pet might swim, there is always a chance they could drown. Watch them!

Fleas and Ticks
Summertime is the worst time of the year for flea infestations. Severe flea infestations can result in physical injury to your pet. It is important to clean your pet with special flea shampoo. Wash all animal bedding and vacuum your house, discarding the vacuum bag afterwards. Repeat this often during the summer, and for serious problems, consult your veterinarian for advice. Ticks are a bit larger and slower than fleas. Check animals thoroughly after outing in wooded areas. Your veterinarian can advise you on the proper removal of ticks.

Heartworm
This is a life-threatening parasite transmitted in dogs by mosquito bites. Heartworms damage the heart, lungs, and other organs. Symptoms include weight loss, coughing, listlessness, and rapid tiring. Pets should receive heartworm tests every year. Follow your veterinarian’s direction if heartworms appear.

Remember that summertime can be a struggle for your pets. If your pets get overheated, cool them as quickly as possible and then see your veterinarian. Help your pets enjoy a safe summer!

If you have any questions, problems or concerns please call the Humane Society Silicon Valley’s Animal Behavior Helpline at (408) 727-3383, extension 753.