Posted by & filed under Uncategorized

Summer Pet Safety 101
By Amber Evans

Summer Pet Safety 101

Summer is just around the corner, and pet owners everywhere are looking for ways to spend these long, beautiful days outside with their fur babies. And while many dogs enjoy spending time outside, Charleston’s infamous summer heat can cause problems if pet parents aren’t careful. Here are some ways to keep your furry loved ones safe this summer season.

Know the signs of heat stress. These include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and increased heart rate. If in doubt, check the dog’s temperature if possible; anything higher than 104 warrants a trip to your veterinarian.

Spend extra time in the shade, and offer your dog plenty of cool, clean water. If your dog is lethargic, has dry or sticky gums or sunken eyes, check for dehydration by gripping the loose skin at the scruff of your dog’s neck and pulling gently, then releasing it. Normally, it will fall back into shape quickly; when your dog is dehydrated, it will tend to stay bunched up. If you see this, it’s time to take a trip to the vet; it is very unlikely that your dog will drink enough water at home to correct the problem, and if left untreated dehydration can lead to serious health risks.

Never leave your dog in a parked car!

Take extra care with brachycephalic (flat-face) dogs like Boston terriers and pugs. Their short snouts make panting more difficult and less effective.

Keep your dog away from hot asphalt. Not only can the surface burn their paw pads, but being closer to the blacktop means their bodies are absorbing more of the radiated heat.

Do not leave your dog unattended around pools. Not all dogs are good swimmers! Ensure all dogs wear a life jacket while out on a boat.

Speaking of pools, don’t let your dog drink pool water. Chlorine can cause upset stomach and diarrhea in your dog, which increases the danger of dehydration.

Many of our favorite summer party foods are harmful or even poisonous to our dogs. Grapes, alcohol, raisins, chocolate, onions, and any food containing the artificial sweetener xylitol should be carefully avoided. Make sure your guests know not to offer your dog tidbits, and have secure garbage cans available out of your pup’s reach.

Have a safe and happy summer!!

By Amber Evans


Comments are closed .

Our Services Providing individualized care from head to paw, at one of our locations or in the comfort of your own home.
Current Specials
Pamper Your Pup

May Flowers Spa Package

Includes french lavender and chamomile shampoo and cologne, massage facial and a festive bandana.

$25 with all Deluxe baths all month long!

Treat of the Month

Treat of the Month

French Vanilla Puppuchino

French vanilla yogurt topped with whipped cream in an adorable pupcup!

Add it onto any package to give your PAWfect pup a little something special!

$7.00

Mother’s Day Licks & Crafts

Flower stencil "lick" painting keepsake! Your pup will enjoy a treat while creating a flower painting just for you!

May 11th & 12th

$25

Chihuahua Fiesta

Celebrate National Chihuahua Day with a Fiesta PAWty! Includes festive decorations, a facebook album, and a tennis ball piñata enrichment activity!

May 24th, 25th & 26th

$15

Award-Winning Care You Can Trust Since 2009
We are focused on staff training and ongoing education in order to provide the best experience for you and your pet. Our team is trained through Pet Tech CPR & First Aid, PACCC, The Dog Gurus, and more. We're proud to be Charleston's "top choice" for pet care.
View Our Credentials
Latest News

National Rescue Dog Day 2023 With Dorchester Paws

Learn More

Thank You for 14 Years!

Learn More

6 Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy and Happy

Learn More

Stay Up-to-date with Dog Tired Sign up to receive the latest news & happenings!
Pet Sitting (843) 408-1033
Hours Mon - Fri: 7am-6pm Sat - Sun: 7am-10am & 4pm-6pm
Connect With Us