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As warm weather approaches we begin spending time outdoors. Whether planting our gradens, working in the yard, or going for walks making up for lonf winter months spent snuggled on the couch.

The enthusiasm of our pets to join us on our warm weather adventures sometimes misleads us to think that they are ready and roaring to go...but...just like yourself, your pet needs time to acclimate to the warming temperatures. Pets, like people, can overheat and can become overworked if introduced to increased exercise in increased temperatures too quickly. Trips to the dog park, a hike in the woods, even the plants you plant in your garden can end in a trip to your vet. Protect your pets from warm weather dangers with these simple precautions.


Hundreds of animals each year are made sick by common plants and products found in their own yards.

  1. Review the ASPCA's list of toxic plants
    http://www.aspca.org/apcc
    Common toxic plants include: Lillies, Rhododendron, Azaleas, Rhubarb, Shamrock, Mushrooms.


  2. Avoid using chemicals in your yard. If you must, follow directions closely.


  3. Build your own "poison emergency" response kit. Find out how on the ASPCA site under Poison Resources


  4. Investigate natural options for controlling pests and weeds in your yard.


  5. Always supervise your pet when outdoors and keep chemicals and other dangers safely out of reach.



Heat Stress and Heat Exhaustion is a sneaky and powerful killer that can progress quite quickly. A day at the park can quickly turn from fun in the sun to an emergency situation that threatens the life of your pet. Keep your pet happy and healthy by knowing how to recognize the signs of heat stress, and knowing how to help your pet avoid over heating. It is important to maintain a good body temperature during play and exercise.

The signs of Heat Exhaustion

  1. Heavy Panting
  2. Hyperventilation
  3. Excessive Drooling
  4. Dry Gums
  5. Lithargy
  6. Weakness and confusion
  7. Vomitting and/or Diarrhea

Ways to Avoid Heat Stroke

  1. Keep large quantities of cool fresh water available
  2. Condition ( acclimate) your dog to warm temperatures by introducing them to increased exercise slowly, building their tolerance.
  3. Provide a shady place for you pet to rest, and insist your pet rest periodically during play.
  4. Cool your pet by occassionally wetting under the arms, belly, and ears.

Please be careful this summer season!





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Check this out!:


Cool K-9's Evaporative Cooling dog vests!



We have used these vest at several shows and outings. I can think of nothing to say except...these vests do exactly what they claim they will! They do a wonderful job of keeping your pets core cool and comfortable.

We stood in 95 degree heat at a show and of all the dogs at the show..ours were the only dogs not panting or laying under tables. Our dogs were PLAYING!!!



 


The HoundSong Herald Articles and other Reading.

Jasper and the uncooked yeast rolls
The Hybrid Hoopla
The Origin of HoundSong
The victims of Tradition
Understanding your Dog (Basic genetics 101)
Guardianship vs. Ownership 
Crates are Cruel???
The P.E.T.A. Problem
Knowing your Rescue



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