5 Tips for Pet Safety on Memorial Day

Want to keep your pets safe this holiday weekend?

Memorial Day weekend is the time of year when we honor the military service personnel who gave their lives in the name of our country. The extra day off for the weekend is the perfect time to kick off the start of summer fun with a picnic or barbeque with family and friends. It’s also a good time to think about summer safety for pets.

1)   The summer foods you enjoy may not be safe for pets. The bones from meat aren’t good for pets and may set up a choking hazard or could splinter inside the intestines if ingested and would require a costly trip to the veterinarian. If you want to offer a human treat, most dogs like vegetables like broccoli, carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes.

2)   Never leave pets in a hot car, even with the windows partly open. The intensity of the heat is magnified on hot days and your pet may perish from heat stroke and lack of air. 

3)   Along the same lines, long-haired pets can easily overheat in the summer sun. Get them groomed but be careful about shaving too closely. Pets can get sunburned, just like people. Ask your veterinarian about sunscreen products designed for pets. Your sunscreen may be too harsh for pets. 

4)   Make sure your pet has on a collar and tags. Loud noises and being in unfamiliar settings may cause some dogs to bolt and run from owners, even if they are otherwise well-trained.

5)   The onset of summer is also a good time to get a treatment for fleas and ticks. Ask your vet for the best flea and tick medicine.
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This Memorial Day weekend, enjoy family, food, and fun and don’t forget to keep your pets healthy and safe as well.

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