Are You Causing Your Dog Unintentional Harm This Summer?
By Home Security Source Jun 28, 2011 | 11:00:00 amPosted in: Pet Safety For many pet owners, the family dog is an honorary family member. Dogs get pampered and taken care of just as if they were children. When the summer heat hits, many owners want to include their dog in the family fun and make sure they are comfortable at the same time. But many dog owners are operating under some common myths that leave their pets open to serious injury. Here are three common misconceptions:
Thought process: “Shaving my dog for the summer keeps them cool in the hot sun.”
The Truth: Dogs don’t sweat like humans. They pant and depend on fur to act as a natural cooling system and protective insulator against the heat. Shaving them can make them vulnerable to sunburn and insect bites.
Thought process: “I can give my dog a nibble from the grill during my BBQ party.”
The Truth: Lean meat is fine. But fatty meat trimmings can cause pancreatitis in dogs. Also, be careful to not give them any meat bones as they can splinter and cause damage. Alcohol is another thing to avoid giving your dog as it can be harmful.
Thought process: “I’ll let my dog hang out the window on a drive, he loves it!”
The Truth: Lung infections, inner ear damage and injury from debris can happen when Fido sticks his head out of the window. Best to keep your dog harnessed or in a crate during trips, and never let him ride in the bed of a truck, as an accident could send him bouncing out.
Keep these things in mind as you include your dog in your summer plans. And also, be sure you are knowledgeable about pet first aid in case of an emergency.
Related Articles:
Pet Safety Tips for the Holidays
Water Safety for the Dog Days of Summer
Safety Tips to Help Keep Pets Safe and Cool This Summer
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