This post is sponsored by the makers of FRONTLINE® Plus Brand Products. Ask your veterinarian about the flea and tick protection of FRONTLINE Plus. Click here to download a coupon.
Jean shorts, pool parties, and longer days. Yup, summer’s here! And pup parents will soon start seeing the warnings about leaving dogs in hot cars posted all over the internet.
But did you know there are other summer-specific hazards that you might not even know could harm your pooch?
1. Too Much Sun
“Duh,” you might be thinking as you roll your eyes at the screen. Well, friends, doggy sunscreen exists for a reason. Some breeds are at higher risk than others, but too much sun will burn your pup just like it could burn you. And no one likes a burnt hot dog.
2. Hot Surfaces
It might seem like a mild weather day, but sidewalks can get hot super quickly under the blazing sun. It’s generally a good idea to stick to shady paths on your walks to keep your pup’s paws cool.
3. Ticks
Ticks are also a huge problem year-round in some areas, but more so now that more folks head to the mountains for summertime camping. The bloodsucking critters can carry Lyme disease and other nasties like Rocky Mountain spotted fever (none of these sound pleasant) that can affect your pup. Help keep your pup protected from fleas and ticks with FRONTLINE Plus brand products.
4. Fleas
Fleas love sand and, with beach season in full swing, they’re more likely to hop a ride on your furry friend and this can result in a number of problems. Left untreated, fleas can be more than just a nuisance to your dog. They can also transmit other parasites and lead to diseases that can make your dog sick, so stay vigilant especially after a romp outside and keep your pup protected from fleas and ticks with FRONTLINE Plus brand products.
5. Open Water
Those of us with pups who love water might think we’re safe, but you never know. If you’re going to be doing some fun water activities with your dog this summer, investing in a doggie life vest can give you peace of mind while you go boating or surfing.
6. Thunderstorms
Okay, so a thunderstorm probably won’t make your pup sick, but a sudden summer thunderstorm can easily spook an otherwise chill pup. And what do some pups do when they’re scared? They run for the hills! We recommend getting your pup microchipped in case they BOLT out on you, because then at least you’d be able to track them down if the unthinkable happens.
7. Fireworks
The 4th of July is a great day for patriotic humans who love to make loud noises, but just like thunderstorms, fireworks can spell disaster for pups and their humans. Keep your dog away from firework displays to lessen the chances that they’ll run off in fear.
8. Heat
Dogs can suffer from heat stroke just like humans can. Unfortunately, many of the signs are things dogs do all the time anyway, like panting and drooling. The best way to prevent your pup from overheating is to limit walks and outdoor playtime to before sunrise, or after sunset (unless you live in a mosquito-infested area, in which case, I’m sorry).
This post is sponsored by the makers of FRONTLINE® Plus Brand Products. FRONTLINE Plus may not be able to help your dog with all of these summertime hazards, but it does protect dogs against fleas and ticks. Ask your veterinarian for more information on FRONTLINE Plus. Click here to download a coupon.
®FRONTLINE is a registered trademark of Merial. FL15BKB-3 (6/15)