Firstly, and I know we keep saying it, however it keeps happening, NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET IN A VEHICLE UNATTENDED, not even for a minute. It can be the cause of serious illness and even death.
You Pets Can and Do Get Sunburnt
Most
people don't even think about their pets getting sunburned but they certainly can. Areas that are commonly affected are the ears, eyelids and nose, especially pink or white areas. Use a pet approved sunscreen to protect your pet and make an appointment with your vet if you do happen to notice any sunburnt areas as pets can suffer from skin cancer too.
Heat Stroke is Common.
Hot Days, we need to drink more to keep ourselves hydrated, so do our pets. Remember a water bottle for them too when you are out walking or playing in the sun. This is probably one of the most common summer related problems and is potentially deadly. On a hot summer's day our pets cannot change their wardrobe or turn on the air conditioning to keep cool and can become over heated in minutes. Keep this in mind, they are usually smaller, however they are often running around twice as much, so keep the water supply up to them.
Pet Friendly Water Safety
Not all pets can swim so you should always introduce pets to water slowly. One just in case they can not swim and two so you don't scare them off water for life. Never leave your pets unattended around a pool and make sure they can get out if they happened to fall in but remember that pets cannot climb pool ladders so steps are essential. Never let your pet drink pool water. Pets on a boat always require close supervision. Once your pet is used to the water, it is highly likely you are going to see them enjoying the water with other good friends or even with yourself and other family members, Be sure kids are supervised at all times and particularly around an excited pet swimming.
Beware of Creepy Crawlies
Snakes and ticks are out and about at this time of the year sunning themselves too. Make sure you keep an eye on your pet at all times and avoid letting your pet roam in long grass. If you live in a tick area or are going to visit one (typically the eastcoast of Australia), be sure you have paralysis tick prevention under control. Check with your regular pet friendly vet prior to heading off on holidays, the last thing you want is a problem that could have been prevented.
