Dr. Emily Winson Shares Summer Pet Safety Tips on ABC7

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with our pets, but warmer temperatures and seasonal activities can also create serious health and safety risks. During her recent interview with ABC7, Dr. Emily Winson shared important tips to help keep pets safe all summer long.

Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Pets can quickly overheat during hot weather, especially those that are older, overweight, highly active, have underlying health conditions, or have short noses.

To help prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

• Schedule walks during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
• Always bring fresh water and encourage frequent hydration.
• Seek shade whenever possible during outdoor activities.
• Be mindful of hot pavement and asphalt, which can burn sensitive paw pads.
• Never leave a pet unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside cars can become dangerous very quickly.

Protecting Pets from Summer Diseases

Summer also brings increased exposure to wildlife, insects, and disease-carrying parasites.

Dr. Winson highlighted leptospirosis and rabies as important concerns, particularly because these diseases can be spread through contact with infected wildlife. Fortunately, vaccinations are available to help protect pets.

Other seasonal threats include:

• Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes.
• Fleas, which can cause irritation and discomfort.
• Ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses.

Now is the perfect time to ensure pets are up to date on vaccinations and year-round preventive medications.

BBQ and Picnic Safety

While it’s tempting to share food during summer gatherings, many common cookout items can be harmful to pets.

Avoid feeding pets:

• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Xylitol-containing products
• Alcohol
• Marijuana products
• Fatty foods such as steak trimmings and hamburgers

Instead, stick to your pet’s regular diet and approved treats to avoid digestive upset and more serious health complications.

Preparing for Fireworks Season

Fireworks can be stressful and frightening for many pets. Dr. Winson recommends creating a plan before celebrations begin.

Helpful strategies include:

• Setting up a quiet, calm indoor space.
• Using pheromone sprays or veterinarian-recommended calming medications when appropriate.
• Ensuring pets wear current identification tags.
• Confirming microchip information is accurate and up to date.

A little preparation can go a long way toward keeping pets safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the summer season.

Schedule your pet’s  prevention appointment