Dog Days of Summer

Animals play an important role in our lives – as service dogs, as companions, as a reason to get up and go for a walk! Here are a few tips for taking care of your pets during the dog days of summer:

• Animals pant to cool down, but if that panting becomes excessive, they could be overheated. Know the signs and be on the lookout for unusual drooling or disorientation. (And remember that animals with flat faces like pugs and Persian cats have a harder time cooling themselves down since they can’t pant easily.)
• Keep your pets in the shade as much as possible – if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them!
• Never keep your pets in a hot car, even just to run in somewhere for a minute. That minute can easily turn into five. And even a minute in a sweltering car is dangerous.
• Summertime is filled with barbecues so take care to make sure your pets are safe around grills (and fourth-of-July fireworks too!).
• And of course, make sure your pets have plenty of water to keep them well hydrated!

Oh, and June 22nd is Bring Your Dog to Work Day, so check with your office and then introduce your colleagues to your favorite furry friend!