Summer Hazards for Pets Beyond the Heat

Heat is the summer danger most pet owners know about. Never leave a pet in a parked car, walk dogs in the cooler hours and watch for heavy panting, drooling, stumbling or vomiting, which are signs of heatstroke that need a vet straight away. But summer brings several other hazards that catch people out every year.

Fireworks and thunderstorms

Animal shelters consistently report a rise in lost pets around Independence Day and other fireworks holidays, when frightened dogs slip leashes, jump fences or bolt through open doors. Keep pets indoors in a quiet room with the curtains closed on fireworks nights, make sure ID tags and microchip details are current, and don't take dogs to displays. If your pet is very fearful, talk to your vet well before the date, since some calming medications need to be started in advance.

Lakes, rivers and pools

• Not every dog can swim. Flat-faced breeds and heavy, short-legged dogs struggle to stay afloat. A properly fitted dog life jacket is worth using on boats and in open water.
• Toxic algae. Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can form scums or blooms on still, warm water. Dogs can be poisoned by swimming in it, drinking it or licking it off their coat, and some toxins can kill within hours. If the water looks like pea soup or spilled paint, or there's a warning sign, keep your dog out.
• Salt water. Dogs that gulp seawater while playing can develop salt poisoning. Bring fresh water to the beach and offer it often.
• Pools. Teach dogs where the steps are, since many drown because they can't find a way out.

Barbecues and picnics

Corn cobs are a classic cause of intestinal blockages in dogs, because they're swallowed in chunks and don't break down. Kebab skewers, cooked bones, fatty scraps (which can trigger pancreatitis), grapes, onions and anything containing xylitol are also common reasons for summer vet visits. Ask guests not to feed pets, and keep trash bags out of reach.

Parasites

Ticks, fleas and mosquitoes are most active in warm months. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other infections, and mosquitoes spread heartworm, which can be fatal and is far easier to prevent than treat. The American Heartworm Society recommends prevention all year round. Check your pet for ticks after walks in long grass or woodland, especially around the ears, neck and between the toes.

Sunburn

Pets with white or thin fur, and pink noses or ears, can sunburn, and repeated burns raise the risk of skin cancer. White cats that sunbathe are particularly vulnerable on the ear tips. Use sunscreen made for pets. Many human sunscreens contain zinc oxide or salicylates, which can be harmful if licked off.