By Dr. Abbi Kisthart
It’s summertime! We’re rolling out the BPPH Summer Safety Series – tune in to our monthly newsletter to protect your pet all season long!
What’s That Sound?
Fireworks, thunderstorms, and construction – oh my! Summertime can be filled with tons of unfamiliar sounds that may be frightening for pets. If your pet has a history of noise-related anxiety, then now is the time to speak with your Brooklyn Park veterinarian to discuss management options. There are a variety of anxiety reducing medications and strategies that can be utilized in these situations. We recommend making a plan with your veterinarian early on to prepare for these scenarios, especially big events like July 4th fireworks, as each pet has unique needs and requires an individualized plan.
Keeping Cool in the Summer Heat
Feelin’ hot, hot, hot? Your pet is, too! Remember to use caution on hot summer days when taking your pet outside or on walks. Pavement and roads can reach scorching temperatures in the summer sun and quickly cause damage to paw pads. Press your palm to the pavement for 10 seconds – if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet! Walk on shaded grass areas or utilize protective boots to protect paws. Avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day, stick to the shade, keep walks short and slow, and offer water frequently. Never leave pets unattended in parked cars, even for short periods of time. Be aware of the risk of heat stroke and contact a veterinarian right away if you notice excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, red gums, or sudden collapse.
Check out this video from Dr. Harding for even more heat safety information.
Backyard BBQ Blues
Tis the season for backyard cookouts and parties! Remember that treats, including human food, should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s total daily calories. Use caution if offering human foods to your pet, as these can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and other signs of illness. Some human foods are toxic and/or can easily obstruct the gastrointestinal tract and can create an emergency situation! Common toxic foods are grapes (including raisins), onions, garlic, and chocolate. Other foods like corn cobs and avocado pits can cause obstructions and require surgical intervention. Instead, consider offering a safe treat for special occasions such as:
- A small amount of a pet safe fruit or vegetable
- Frozen plain Greek yogurt
- Frozen plain canned pumpkin
Schedule Your Pet’s Summer Wellness Visit Today!
If you have any additional questions or would like to ensure your pet is in tip-top shape this summer, we encourage you to schedule a wellness exam at Brooklyn Park Pet Hospital. Our local vet team is here to support your pet’s health. Feel free to reach out to us at your convenience — we look forward to seeing you and your furry friend soon!
