Dog Care Tips for a Healthy Summer

 Dog Care Tips for a Healthy Summer 

During the hot summer months, your dog can suffer from all sorts of season-specific problems. To make sure you keep your dog healthy this summer, it helps to have some advice. Here are some tips to help make sure your canine friend stays safe and healthy during the hot summer months.

1. When to Walk? 
Dogs love to walk and run, and you may find it hard to resist when your dog wants to go out and play. However, sources say that you should not go for long walks to let your dog engage in strenuous activity in the daytime heat. Instead, try to confine activity to early morning or evening. If you really don't have a choice but to take your dog out in the midday heat, bring cool water along and make sure your dog has access to shade.

2. Taking Your Dog Along
Summer is the season for outdoor events - cookouts, fairs, festivals, and so forth. Many dog owners consider their dog to be a part of the family, and therefore they like their dogs to go everywhere with them. Dogs may really love this, but consider your dog's safety before taking him along on your outing. Here are some things to consider:

-Will there be access to shade? 
-If your dog gets overheated, do you have access to an air-conditioned room or vehicle?
-Check to see what the high temperature is predicted for that day, and whether or not it's supposed to be sunny or cloudy.
-Does your dog like crowds, or does she find them exhausting? 
-Will there be loud noises like fireworks or loud rides/machines? Do these stress your dog? 

3. Water Fun - Drinking and Swimming
Keeping water on hand is not always hard; keeping it cool can be challenging, however. The best course of action is probably an insulated backpack or cooler. Keep your dog's drink as cool as your own, and take along a portable water bowl. 

As for fun in the water, many dogs love to swim, but many don't. To keep your pet healthy and safe this summer, help him or her navigate water in a safe environment. A life jacket for your dog is a good idea on a boating trip. Be aware of parasites and other potentially dangerous life forms in the water (such as stinging jelly fish). 

4. Fleas, Ticks, and Parasites
These days, most vets insist that you give your dog heartworm preventative year-round. So your monthly heartworm pill regimen won't change during summer. However, other parasites and pests can afflict your dog. Flea and tick preventative should be applied as often as the manufacturer or your vet recommends, and use a flea comb to check your dog for ticks after an outing. 

 

Why You Should Always Carry A Tick Key When Camping

Story by Vaani Sai

  

Wood tick on skin© Fotopen/Getty Images

As camping enthusiasts revel in the wonders of the great outdoors, they often encounter an unseen menace: ticks. These tiny arachnids, while minuscule in size, pose significant health risks. They serve as vectors for various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, making their bites more than mere nuisances. The ramifications of these bites span from mild symptoms like fever and fatigue to severe neurological complications and chronic conditions. Left untreated, tick bites can lead to life-altering diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Given these potential risks, it becomes imperative to prioritize measures that minimize the chances of encountering ticks. Among the array of tips and technologies that exist to prevent tick bites, there exists a simple yet invaluable tool that every camper should carry: the tick key. In this article, we'll explore why carrying a tick key when camping is not just advisable but essential for safeguarding your health and well-being.

Read more: The 17 Best Fall Camping Spots In The US According To Campers Who've Been There

What Are Tick Keys And How Do I Use Them?

 

Person using tick key to remove tick from dog© Provided by Outdoor Guide

Tick keys are purpose-built tools designed for safe and efficient tick removal. They typically feature sturdy construction with a narrow slot or notch near the front, enabling users to slide the key under the tick's body and firmly grasp it at its mouthparts. Focusing on the tick's mouthparts is crucial as it prevents compression of the tick's body, which could force the tick to regurgitate or inject infectious fluids into the wound during removal. By securely gripping the tick at its mouthparts, tick keys minimize the risk of leaving behind residual tick parts or fluids that could lead to infection or regurgitation into the wound.

The key difference between tick keys and makeshift removal methods like tweezers or fingers is their ability to minimize the risk of inadvertently injecting pathogens into the bloodstream. When using tweezers or fingers, there's a higher likelihood of squeezing the tick's body during extraction. Even attempts to suffocate a tick by coating it with lotion, jelly, or bug spray after it has latched on pose the same risk, as the tick may become aggravated and regurgitate pathogens. 

Benefits Of Tick Keys Beyond Tick Removal

 

Tick on finger© Cherriesjd/Getty Images

Despite their effectiveness, tick keys are readily available at an affordable price point. Most outdoor supply stores, camping gear retailers, and online marketplaces offer a variety of tick key models, making them easily accessible to campers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Additionally, many pharmacies and veterinary clinics stock tick keys, recognizing their importance in promoting tick safety and disease prevention.

Beyond their effectiveness in tick removal, tick keys offer unparalleled convenience, portability, and ease of use. Their compact and lightweight design makes them a practical addition to any camping gear, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to carry them effortlessly in pockets or attach them to gear loops. This ensures that campers are always prepared to address tick encounters promptly, regardless of the camping environment or terrain.

Moreover, the presence of a tick key fosters proactive tick safety practices among campers. With this essential tool readily accessible, individuals are more inclined to conduct regular tick checks on themselves, their companions, and their pets. It's essential to note that tick keys do not prevent ticks from attaching or biting you. Therefore, it is still essential to keep bugs away with repellent strategies. However, early detection and removal of ticks significantly diminish the risk of tick-borne illnesses, empowering campers to enjoy their outdoor adventures with peace of mind, knowing that they have taken proactive measures to protect their health and well-being.

Read the original article on Outdoor Guide

 

The Best Time to Begin Flea Medicine

 A Healthy Start: The Best Time to Begin Flea Medicine for Your Furry Friend

Welcome to the ultimate guide on when to start flea and tick medicine for your beloved furry friend! As pet owners, ensuring the health and well-being of our pets is a top priority. One crucial aspect of pet care is protecting them from pesky fleas and ticks. In this article, we'll dive into the best time to start flea medicine, why it's important, and how you can create a tailored prevention plan for your pet. Let's embark on this journey to a flea-free and happy life for your furry companion!

Understanding Flea and Tick Seasonality: When to Start Preventative Measures

Fleas and ticks thrive in different seasons and environments, making it essential to understand their life cycles and activity periods. The best time to start flea medicine varies depending on factors such as geographic location, climate, and your pet's lifestyle. By knowing when these pests are most active, you can proactively protect your pet.

Signs and Symptoms of Flea and Tick Infestation: Identifying the Best Time to Begin Treatment 

Early detection is key to effective flea and tick prevention. Knowing the signs and symptoms of infestation, such as excessive scratching, redness, or visible pests on your pet's fur, helps determine the best time to start flea medicine. Don't wait until the problem escalates – act swiftly to safeguard your pet's health.

Importance of Timely Prevention: Why Starting Flea Medicine Early Is Crucial 

Starting flea medicine early offers numerous benefits, including preventing infestations, reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases, and maintaining your pet's comfort. Don't underestimate the power of proactive prevention – it's easier to keep fleas and ticks at bay than to deal with a full-blown infestation.

Choosing the Right Flea and Tick Treatment: Factors to Consider for Optimal Effectiveness 

With a plethora of flea and tick treatments available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Consider factors such as your pet's age, size, health condition, and any previous reactions to treatments. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable and effective option for your furry friend.

Consultation and Follow-Up: Working with Your Veterinarian for a Successful Flea and Tick Prevention Plan 

Your veterinarian is your ally in creating a comprehensive flea and tick prevention plan. Schedule regular check-ups to assess your pet's health and adjust the prevention strategy as needed. Open communication and collaboration with your vet ensure a tailored approach that keeps your pet protected year-round.

Conclusion: Congratulations on taking the proactive step towards protecting your pet from fleas and ticks! By understanding the best time to start flea medicine and implementing a customized prevention plan, you're ensuring a healthy and happy life for your furry friend. Remember, prevention is key, so stay vigilant and prioritize your pet's well-being. We invite you to share your flea prevention strategies in the comment section below and join our community of pet-loving enthusiasts. Tog