Along with the warm, sunny humid months of summer come an increased number of skin irritations for pets. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause redness, dryness and itching, which makes one more vulnerable to additional skin problems. White coated pets with pink skin are especially susceptible while the nose and ears are higher risk areas for all pets.

Thriving plants produce pollen that causes allergies for many pets. Typical signs include redness, itching and scratching that may lead to open sores. Secondarily, bacterial and yeast take advantage of the weakened skin resistance and create skin infections. Using antihistamines and using soothing shampoo to keep the skin clean and dry can go a long way in making your pet comfortable and less susceptible to allergies and secondary infections.

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Summer is a great time for you and your pet to get outdoors and enjoy some fun in the sun. It’s also a great way to meet other people with pets. Being with other people and their pets is good for your pet’s social skills and good for us after a long winter indoors. Here are some fun things you can do with your pet outside.

1. Take a hike. Bring your dog hiking on a nearby wooded trail. It’s important to keep your pet on a leash on hiking trails because you never know what is going to grab their attention. Bring some water and a collapsible bowl to ensure that your pet doesn’t dehydrate. You might even consider buying your dog a doggy backpack and letting them carry their own gear.

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“This time of year, many people are traveling with their pets. Our clinic offers “Mellow Out” Pet Relaxant to clients who are looking for a safe, effective way to calm their pet without using prescription tranquilizers. ”
Charles Hopek, DVM
Perris, California

“My Sheltie-Pom mix was suffering from ongoing ear infections. Since I have started using Pet Ear Cleaner, she hasn’t had a single ear infection.”
Debbie Makum
Spokane, Washington

“We have been using Oxyfresh Pet Deodorizer for years. We have two dogs and a cat and when people come into our house, they say there is no animal smell at all! We have many uses for it: We put it in our animals’ water for their breath, spray it in the litter box and even spray our animals’ coats to keep them shiny.”
Dennis Hyde
Gainsville, Virginia

Heatstroke develops rapidly and can be brought on by exposure to high temperatures, humidity and poor ventilation. Signs include panting, staring, decreased responsiveness, dehydration and rapid heart rate and can result in brain damage, seizures and suffocation. Older pets, those with respiratory or heart problems, overweight pets and those with a history of previous heat stress are especially susceptible. Lack of shade and ventilation, too much exercise, and not enough fresh water are risk factors. Temperatures in a closed car when the outside temperature is 78 degrees can reach 90 degrees in five minutes and 110 degrees in 25 minutes. On a hot summer day the inside car temperatures can rapidly reach 150 degrees.

Pets, just like people, are susceptible to sun damage. Especially those with thin hair or bald areas and those that have recently had a short hair cut, which is popular during the summer months. These pets can suffer severe sunburn and skin damage unless they are protected by shade or clothing. Sunscreen for people works for pets and there are special preparations made for dogs.

Vacations and family outings are popular in the summer and can be fun for both pets and their people. Travel can also be stressful. Before taking a long trip with your pet take several short trips to help your pet get used to the car and the motion. Pets frequently get motion sickness and it can often be prevented or lessened by short repeated trips. Remember not to leave your pet in a closed car. If you need to leave the vehicle take your pet with you or leave the windows partially down and park in the shade. Pets left at home or in a boarding kennel may suffer from separation anxiety. Consider a pet sitter or take your pet’s favorite bed or toys to the kennel.

Summer means fireworks in areas where they are legal. Noise from thunder and fireworks can be very frightening for many pets even while indoors at their own home. Try closing all windows and doors to cancel out as much noise as possible. For those who have been stressed in the past, your veterinarian may suggest anti-anxiety medication or tranquilizers. When pets are outdoors and near fireworks keep them on a leash at all times. Pets don’t know the danger of exploding fireworks and may try to retrieve a live firecracker or rocket with serious consequences.

Summer means more walks, trips to the park and outdoor activities of all kinds. Pets are eager to join in the fun and like young children they can be easily consumed by the activities and not pay attention to what’s happening around them sometimes ending in some degree of trauma. Pets, like people, also need to gradually increase their amount of exercises to allow their metabolism and endurance to increase at a comfortable pace.