Each summer we valley dwellers prepare ourselves for the brutal fierceness of the summer sun and the dry, unforgiving air. We know to hydrate ourselves throughout the day to replenish the moisture we lose and keep our bodies cool. We know to seek refuge in the shade when the rays become unbearable. We know a lot of things our pets don’t, and it’s our job to make sure they stay safe.
Kenneth Haynes, head veterinarian of Dana Park Veterinary Hospital, took some time to offer advice on how to make sure pets stay safe through the torrid North State summers.
What are some of the larger concerns for pet care in the summertime?
We see six to eight dogs a day for foxtails. I’m a big fan of foxtail clips for their feet that prevent them from collecting foxtails in their toes or feet. Clip the hair and check the feet every day and make sure they stay out of the dry grass. Check feet, eyes, ears, nose and keep dogs out of that dry grass until all the foxtails have gone away. August is probably a good idea. Heat is also a big concern for the summertime.
Can animals determine when it’s too hot to be outside?
Dogs are smart enough to seek shade in cooler places. But it depends on age and health, just like people. The older and the younger animals, the less heat-tolerant they’re going to be. Acclimation is very important, too. If an animal is used to a climate where it’s 65 or 70 degrees, and you put it in 110 degrees, even in the shade, it probably won’t be very tolerant. There are dogs that exist in places hotter than Redding. But when it gets over 95 degrees, dogs need shade and fresh water at all times. When it gets to be over 105 degrees, they should be brought inside.
Are there negative effects of too much sun exposure? What are the signs/symptoms?
We see between six and 10 cases of heat frustration a year — most of which come from environments where dogs are kept in closed environments, like a car. In just a few minutes the temperature can get very hot. We see that happen every year. Watch out for excessive panting, weakness, increased body temperature and red, congested mucus membranes. (Hint: if the gums are bright red, that’s bad).
Is car travel appropriate during unusually hot days?
Car travel is fine. Most of the cars these days are air-conditioned; but even if not, as long as the windows are down and air is moving the dog won’t overheat in the car. It’s when you stop and restrict that movement of air that it gets dangerous. If it’s over 85 or 90 degrees, it’s not a good idea to leave dogs in the car for any amount of time. Parked cars can reach 130 degrees in just a few minutes. Sometimes things happen and you get stuck — a few minutes can easily turn into a half hour.
Do pets have allergies? How can pet owners deal with them?
Allergies are genetic, so there isn’t a way to prevent them. But having the allergies diagnosed and avoiding things animals are allergic to is extremely helpful. The target system of allergies in dogs is the skin, and allergies manifest in itchy skin. Recurring rashes are also signs of allergies. So don’t assume that just because your dog is itching that it’s because of fleas.
When should pets exercise?
We see dogs that are overexercised. During real hot spells, early in the morning or late in the evening is a good time to exercise. The problem is they are going to be more responsive to pleasing your commands than they are to their needs, and they overexercise. It’s not a good idea to play Frisbee in the middle of the afternoon.
Are animals more prone to fleas and ticks during the summer?
Ticks are actually more common in the spring or fall. Of course, they are present throughout the summer. Fleas can be a year-round problem here in Redding, though they’re certainly more active in the summer months.
What kinds of flea treatments do you offer? Do you recommend organic or homeopathic remedies?
Just because something is organic doesn’t mean it is safe. Tea tree oil and things like that can have very toxic effects, especially on cats. We have a very safe new generation of products that are toxic to insects but not to mammals. Those products are very safe and effective, and unlike some of the insecticides and pesticides we’ve had in the past, these are environmentally safe.
Any water safety tips for pools or lakes?
They make some really good life jackets for dogs now, and I think dogs on a boat on the lake or a river should wear a life jacket. Dogs can swim for a long period of time, but they can’t swim forever without getting tired. You need to be careful about being in a river. Make sure to use good judgment and make sure the current is not too strong. Also remember that the water is very cold and don’t overexercise them. Swimming pools can be a problem. Every year we have dogs that drown in swimming pools. Pool covers that float on top of the water can be a hazard to children and dogs because it gives the impression there’s a solid surface there. Smaller dogs in particular should wear life jackets when you’re not there. Gating the pool off is a good idea. Bigger dogs should be taught where to get out of the pool and how.
Dana Park Veterinary Hospital is represented by Redding-based Cornucopia Enterprises. The author of this piece, Joshua Corbelli, is a freelance writer who lives in Redding. Cornucopia Enterprises can be reached at 221-2369.
