What are some good tips for pet owners to be aware of with the dog days of summer upon us?

Just like you pets need a shady spot to relax in the heat of the day.

It can be 10 degrees cooler in the shade than it is in the direct sun.

Make sure the source of shade is available all day and does not disappear as the sun moves across the sky.

Dogs pant a lot in the heat, that’s how they regulate body temperature (they don’t sweat), and that panting leads to a lot of body fluid loss.

Along with shade an ample supply of fresh clean water is critical.

Be careful around bbq’s and cookouts.

Some dog’s can’t handle sudden changes in their diet so if they get into the picnic basket or if someone feeds them burgers, hotdogs etc. it could lead to diarrhea, vomiting or worse.

There is a reason they call it PEOPLE FOOD.

The Grill itself can be a source of problems.

Grease dripping from the grill can be double trouble.

Licking the grease can lead to pancreatitis, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Since the grease tastes so good dogs tend to ingest all the stuff the grease falls on like rocks, sticks, leaves etc, and this can lead to GI blockages.

These are but a few things to keep summer lazy hazy and healthy.

                                                                                                Dr. Biggie