How to have a great summer with your PUG!
	We all love summer, but the season requires that we be mindful of some important facts for our pets.

Our furry friends are wearing a coat all year round, so remember...when you're hot, your pet is hotter. Your dog's resting body temperature is 101-102 already, unlike a human which is 98.6. 
   

At Home Keep pets indoors when you're not home, or in a shaded place where they can stay cool. Keep windows open when you're home for ventilation and cross breeze.    Always keep your pet’s water bowl full of fresh clean water. Keep more than one water bowl in the house especially during the summer.

On the Road Don't leave your pets in the car unattended.  Many well meaning people leave pets in a car    that is cool when they get out, but  return to find that it is no longer shady, and/or the temerature has rapidly increased, leaving their pet in respiratory distress, or worse...dead.  It only takes a matter of minutes for a car to heat up to unbearable temperatures -- on a 78 degree day, the car can heat up to 160 degrees in a few minutes!  Endangering a pet in this way is considered a crime. Bring cool water and a water bowl wherever you go.  Dehydration happens fast and you will need to replenish your dog’s resources and electrolytes. If you are taking a long trip and plan on having your dog in a crate, be sure the air conditioning system in the car reaches the area where your dog will be.  Check on your dog and the temperature in their area frequently.

Beware of the signs Signs of heat distress include: heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid pulse, unsteadiness, staggering gait, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue.  If your pet exhibits any of these signs, take them into the shade or air conditioning immediately and apply cool (not cold) water all over their body to gradually lower the body temperature.  You may also apply ice packs to the animal's head, neck, and chest.

Taking walks Beach sand and Asphalt get very hot and can burn your pet's paws.  If you must walk your dog during the hottest part of the day, stay on grassy and shady areas or dirt paths.  Or better yet, take walks in the early morning, or evening. Purchase a portable water bowl and bring a thermos of cold water if you take a long walk in the sun. Exercise + high heat = heat stroke.  Keep the pace slow if you must be out with your dog in the extreme temperatures.  Bring cool water to drink.

Pools A kiddie pool is a great thing to have for pets to use to cool off, but remember that the water level doesn’t need to be over the dog’s head for it to drown.  Just as babies can drown in a shallow tub, small dogs can also drown.  Keep enough water in the pool to allow the dog to walk in and wet half of their limbs, but not high enough to reach their underbelly.

Events  4th of July can be frightening for pets.  Be sure to leave all pets indoors and keep the windows closed in order to minimize noise.  Pets can easily become over stressed and frightened.  They may attempt to run away so keep them safe indoors and take the time to  reassure them that everything is ok.   If your pet is especially nervous or predisposed to stress, you may want to consult your veterinarian regarding the use of tranquilizers.  Older pets can experience heart failure at times like these, so be sure to make a careful determination about how to properly care for your pet in preparation for 4th of July.

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