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Never leave your dog unattended in direct sunlight or in a closed vehicle. Heatstroke can occur and lead to brain damage or death. Signs of heatstroke are panting, drooling, rapid pulse and fever. Immediately immerse the dog in cool water and seek emergency veterinary assistance.
| Although AKC advises against it, if you absolutely must leave your dog in the car, make sure your car windows are slightly ajar so your dog can get fresh air, park in the shade and leave some fresh water.
| Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
| All dogs should have proper identification at all times. The AKC suggests a collar with an ID tag, a tattoo or microchip.
| Keep your dog on a leash when he is outdoors to prevent accidents and injuries.
| Try to avoid strenuous exercise with your dog on extremely hot days and refrain from physical activity when the sun's heat is most intense. |
Health Tips: We may know our canine companions better than anyone else, but it is important to remember most of us are not medical professionals. If you are uncertain how to treat your dog's medical needs or if you have any questions, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Listed below is some important information to keep in mind with the arrival of summer:
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Have your dog's vaccinations updated if necessary. Diseases such as rabies, distemper and parvo are ever-present dangers and necessary precautions should be taken.
| Beware of insect bites. If your dog is bitten or stung, remove the stinger and watch the site for an allergic reaction. If this occurs or if there have been multiple wasp, bee or mosquito bites, take the animal to the vet.
| Check the dog daily for fleas and ticks.
| Heartworm is a common problem for dogs. Bring your dog to a vet for a heartworm check every spring and follow your vet's advice for heartworm precautions.
| Most lawn and garden products my be hazardous. Make sure that plants and fertilizers within the dog's reach are not toxic.
| Being outdoors means being exposed to elements. Dogs may need extra brushing and bathing to stay clean and healthy.
| No matter how careful and responsible you may be, accidents can happen. Make sure your vet's phone number is close at hand and available to all family members. |
Beach Tips: Taking your dog to the beach can be a great way to spend a beautiful summer day. However, as a responsible dog owner there are certain precautions you should take:
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Provide plenty of fresh water and shade for your dog.
| Dogs can get sunburn, especially short haired dogs and dogs with pink skin and white hair. Limit your dog's exposure when the sun is unusually strong and apply sun block to his ears and nose thirty minutes before going outside.
| Check with a lifeguard for daily water conditions - dogs are easy targets for jelly fish and sea lice.
| If your dog is out of shape, don't encourage him to run on the sand. Running on a beach is strenuous exercise and a dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament.
| Cool ocean water is tempting to your dog. Do not allow him to drink too much sea water. Salt in the water will make him sick.
| Salt and other minerals found in the ocean can damage your dog's coat. So, when you are ready to leave for the day, rinse off your dog.
| Not all beaches permit dogs. Make sure you are informed before you begin your excursion to the beach. |
Does Your Dog Doggie Paddle?: The majority of dogs can swim and love it, but dogs entering the water for the first time should be tested. Here are some important tips for teaching your dog how to swim:
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Never throw your dog into the water.
| Start in shallow water and call your dog's name. You can also try to coax him in with a treat or toy - always within your reach.
| Another way to introduce your dog to the water is with a dog who already swims and is friendly with your dog. Let you dog follow his friend.
| If your dog begins to doggy paddle with his front legs only, lift his hind legs and help him float. He should quickly catch on and will then keep his back end up.
| Swimming is a great form of exercise, but don't let your dog overdo it. He will be using new muscles and may tire quickly.
| Be careful of strong tides that are hazardous for even the best swimmers.
| Never leave your dog unattended! You should always be in a position to help your dog get out of the water. |
The American Kennel Club was established in 1884 to promote the study, breeding, exhibiting and advancement of pure-bred dogs. It is the largest not-for-profit registry in the nation.
The AKC has approximately 500 member clubs and over 4,000 affiliated clubs.
The AKC approves and maintains the official records of over 11,000 sanctioned and licensed events each year. These events, which draw nearly two million entries annually, include dog shows, field trials, obedience trials, lure coursing, hunting tests, herding trials, tracking and coonhound events.
The AKC Breeder Referral Representative Program assists potential puppy buyers in obtaining pure-bred dogs. By calling the customer service number during business hours at 1-919-233-9767 or by calling 1-900-407-7877* anytime, callers are directed to AKC breed clubs for information of their requested breed.
For additional information
contact:
American Kennel Club
5580 Centerview Drive
Raleigh, NC 27606
(919) 233-9767
* When using this service you will be charged 99 cents per minute. The average call is approximately 2 - 3 minutes.
© 1994 American Kennel Club, Inc.
Summer Safety Guidelines