Ensuring a Healthy Summer for Your Pets

I came across a news report stating that starting today, midday temperatures will approach 35 degrees Celsius. 

In the era of 10 million pets, one in five people in South Korea lives with a pet. 

Living together means that there are basic relationships to establish and rules to follow.

As a member of the family, it is important to show consideration and create a suitable living environment that matches their habits. In our country, where the four seasons are distinct, preparing for each season is crucial. Just like humans, animals are also vulnerable to extreme heat and high humidity. Here are some tips for a healthy summer with your pets.

Major Illnesses to Prepare for in Summer

Summer can be even hotter for pets than for humans because their body temperature is about 2 degrees Celsius higher than ours. This makes them more susceptible to various illnesses, so it’s important to be aware of and prevent these conditions in advance.

Heatstroke

Pets, especially dogs, primarily regulate their body temperature through panting since they lack sweat glands. However, their ability to regulate temperature is less efficient than humans, making them particularly prone to heatstroke.

Symptoms of heatstroke include high fever, rapid breathing, bloodshot eyes, and bloody stools. If you notice these symptoms, suspect heatstroke immediately.

Severe cases can be fatal, so if these symptoms appear, head to a veterinary clinic right away. During transport, give your pet sugar or honey to prevent hypoglycemic shock. To prevent heatstroke, avoid keeping your pet in enclosed spaces, refrain from walking them during peak sunlight hours, and ensure they have adequate rest in the shade along with plenty of water.

Food Poisoning

Like humans, pets can also suffer from food poisoning. Avoid feeding them raw, uncooked food and store perishable items in the refrigerator, treating their food with the same care as human food.

Symptoms of food poisoning in pets include loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you notice these signs, take your pet to the vet immediately. Knowing when your pet last ate and how soon after eating the symptoms appeared can help the vet provide quicker and more effective treatment.

 

Tick-Borne Diseases

One popular spot for outings with dogs is grassy fields. These areas allow pets to avoid the hot ground and run freely, but they also increase the risk of ticks attaching to their fur and skin. 

Ticks can cause itching and skin diseases, so it’s important to be vigilant. If you find a tick on your pet, use tweezers to carefully remove it by grasping the head, and then visit the vet for a check-up.

If you plan outdoor activities, consider using tick prevention medications in advance. Depending on your pet’s weight and health, you can choose from oral medications, topical treatments, or tick collars to provide consistent protection.

 

Summer Vacation Tips for Pet Care

1. Use a Travel Carrier: When using public transport, ensure your pet is in a secure travel carrier.
2. Consult Airlines Before International Travel: Check with airlines about their specific requirements for pet travel.
3. Inquire About Pet Hotel Guidelines: If using a pet hotel, ask about their policies and services.
4. Use One-on-One Pet Sitting Services: Personalized pet sitting services can offer tailored care for your pet.

By being aware of these potential summer hazards and taking proactive measures, you can ensure your pet stays healthy and happy during the hot season.