Heat Tip

Keep Safe in the Sun

When the sun comes out, we all want to make the most of it and our pets are always eager to join in the fun. Yet just like us, dogs can suffer in the heat. When going for a long walk in the sunshine, it is important to remember that no matter how much they may run around, dogs are not inexhaustible. Be sure to stop regularly to let your dog have a drink, and walking near streams that they can paddle in will make sure that they can keep cool. The best time to walk your dog is in the early morning or late evening before the weather gets  too hot. If your dog slows down and seems to want a rest, then let them lie in a shaded area for a while and cool them by pouring water on their neck, the  pads of their feet, and their belly before continuing. Summer is the perfect time to get the BBQ going, but this can hold all sorts of  dangers for our pets. Dogs just love the smell of cooking meat but make sure  that they can never snatch anything as sizzling sausages can burn their stomach when swallowed. Also dangerous are kebab skewers and cooked bones, which can splinter when chewed. Keep everything out of reach of your pet and make sure rubbish goes straight into the bin. While everyone is having fun, it is easy to forget that your dog could be overheating  in the sun. Signs of heat stroke include (but are not limited to): excessive panting, dark or bright red tongue and gums, sticky or dry tongue and gums, staggering, seizures, bloody diarrhea or vomiting, and rapid heartbeat. Ensuring that they always have somewhere cool to sit and cool water (not ice water)  to drink greatly reduces the risk of heat related illnesses such as sunstroke. You can  help your pet by placing cool wet cloths on his paws and around his head. Also, offering ice cubes for your pet to lick is also a great cool-down treat! Of course, no matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen to our beloved pets.  PetPartners, the exclusive pet insurance provider of the AKC®, offers a range of insurance  plans which can be quoted online within seconds by visiting www.akcpethealthcare.com or by calling 1-866-725-2747. NOT MINE FROM: http://www.pages01.net/americankennelclub.com