I posted a blog last summer on safety for pets that covered a variety of topics. This time I want to focus on specifics including car safety, fireworks, and first aid kits. Preparation is key, and this includes being prepared for unexpected events.
Fireworks
Believe it or not, consumers buy more fireworks than ever before. Consumers buy 20 times more fireworks than what is purchased for professional shows. This equates to over $2 billion dollars!
What does this mean for you as a dog owner?
We have all heard that unexpected noise that comes out of nowhere on a hot summer night, even with the windows closed and the AC on high. This can be annoying if you are trying to sleep or hear something on the TV. But what is the experience like for your dog?
Dogs can hear sounds four times further away than humans. According to www.petful.com, while humans can hear frequencies between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz, dogs can detect sounds between 67 Hz to 45,000 Hz. So, sounds like fireworks can understandably be mentally and physically painful for dogs.
Plan ahead
If you are going to attend a fireworks display, keep your doggy at home. If they can be heard from your home, consider using music or white noise to drown them out. Have your dog in a comfortable place that he likes like his crate, or a mud room away from windows with enrichment activities available. If your dog has been known to react in the past, discuss with your veterinarian. They may describe medication.
Car Safety
Extreme Temperatures
With temperatures rising during the summer, it is crucial to be mindful when having your dog join you in the car. While it can be fun to drive around with your canine friend, it’s important to think about where you are going and for how long your dog may be in the car by themselves. Is it necessary that they come with you?
The weather is changing for many of us and can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a winter day below freezing, or a warmer day over 70 degrees, it’s best to leave your pooch at home. On a 70-degree day, the inside of a car can reach 100 degrees in 20 minutes.
If you do decide to take your dog with you, be sure to have cold water available at all times so your pooch stays hydrated.
Comfort and Safety
Providing a safe, comfortable spot for your dog in the car is a good idea. This will also give the driver the space needed to safely operate the car.
Seat Canopy
This can be placed on a rear seat and attached to the head rests. It gives the dog a comfortable place to rest and can save your seat covers! Many also come with a seat belt that can be used to secure the dog to a seat belt already in your car.
Booster Seat
There are a variety of booster seats on the market which will give your dog a comfortable place to sit or lie down while being safely restrained with a seat belt.
The above suggestions will not only keep your dog safe, but you as well. First responders have mentioned that if someone involved in a vehicle accident has a dog in their car, the dog may prevent them from tending to the human quickly if the dog goes into protection mode.
First Aid Training and Kits
Walks and day trips provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation for dogs, but there is always a risk of injury. Slips, falls, bee stings, wild animals, and many other risks can happen at any time. Keeping a first aid kit in your car and being trained in its use could save your dog’s life.
First Aid Training
There are several organizations that provide first aid training for pets, both in person and online. The American Red Cross and e-training for dogs are just two resources where you can obtain this training.
First Aid Kits
Keeping a kit at home and/or in your vehicle can make a big difference. You can purchase these online through distributors such as Amazon. The kit should include a variety of items such as tweezers, gauze, antiseptic, a warming blanket, and more. Be sure to restock the kit after use.
Be prepared, so that you and your pets can have a fun and safe summer!