April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month which means this is a good time to talk about safety tips that will help pet owners keep their dogs’ and cats’ healthy as we head into the spring and summer months of the year. As the weather heats up here are some things to look for:
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is the most common problem for dogs and cats that are not accustomed to warmer temperatures. We’ve talked about it before, but we’ll remind you again–pet owners should never leave their animals inside a car, even during short trips. The temperature inside a car can quickly reach 120 degrees and this often leads to heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke include:
Heavy Panting
When animals aren’t able to calm down, even lying down, this is just one sign of heatstroke. If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, check the inside of his or mouth. If your pet’s gums appear to be brick red in color then they might have a fast pulse which will need immediate attention.
Temperature
If you believe that your pet is suffering from heat stroke it’s best to take their temperature, but you’ll need to do it rectally. Pets with a fever above 105 Degrees Fahrenheit will need to cool down. This can be done easily with a water hose. When their body temperature reaches 103 Degrees Fahrenheit, bring your pet to the veterinarian immediately. There your dog or cat will be checked for both organ dysfunction and organ failure.
Other warm weather hazards to pets also include:
Open doors and windows
Open doors and windows are dangerous to pets because they increase the risk of falling from windows. Spring is a great time to check your window screens for rips and tears. Replacing broken screens will help eliminate the possibility that your dog or cat might also jump through the screen when they see something in the yard they may want to chase.
Plants
While many plants are beautiful to look at and smell, they are often hazardous to pets. Lilies, which bloom in spring, are poisonous to pets, but they aren’t the only plants that are toxic. To see a complete list, visit the ASPCA Poison Control web siteto find out if your favorite plants and or flowers might be dangerous to your pets.
Pet owners who are interested can always sign up for a Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid class. In the Phoenix area, call homefurgood.orgto ask if they are offering classes in the near future. They can be reached at (602) 971-1334. While you’re on their website be sure to check out their list of dogs and cats that are up for adoption and waiting for their furever homes!
Stay tuned as well for more information on pet health awareness including a refresher course on how to put together a pet first aid kit just in case you have a pet emergency!
Today we would like to thank homefurgood.comas well as redcross.orgfor helping us with this post. Be sure to visit each website for more helpful tips on how to keep your pets’ healthy and happy for life!
This post has been brought to you today by Arrowhead Scoopers. Arrowhead Scoopers is the leading pet waste removal company in the West Phoenix area, including Glendale, Peoria, and Surprise. Give us a call today at (602) 391-0160 to receive your free quote. Our rates start at just $11.00 per week. Visit our website at www.arrowheadscoopers.comto view customer reviews and more! Happy Tails!