hot weather tips 

Summer in the Hamptons means fun in the sun, but summer can be a dangerous season for pets. Here are some safety tips.  

DON'T LEAVE YOUR PET IN THE CAR
On hot summer days, the inside of a car heats up very quickly. On an
85-degree day, the temperature inside your car – with the windows slightly open – will reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes. “Even the healthiest of pets will suffer from heat exhaustion,” says ARF vet Dr. Sarah Alward. Signs to watch for are excessive panting, difficulty breathing, lethargy, drooling, diarrhea and vomiting. If you believe your pet has heat exhaustion, get him/her to a cool place and call your vet immediately. You can cool your pet down with a hose or in a swimming pool, tub or shower. 



Also, cars tend to overheat in the summer and leak antifreeze, which is poisonous to pets.  Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in most brands of antifreeze, has a sweet smell and taste that appeals to animals. Antifreeze with propylene glycol is a safer alternative because it has a bitter taste. 
SWIMMING POOL HAZZARDSphoto courtesy of www.paragonbengals.com
Most dogs love to swim, right? Some don’t, but even dogs who do swim can be put at risk in swimming pools. A local dog died tragically this spring when it could not get out of a swimming pool that had no steps or ladder. Secure pool fencing, a self- locking gate, and steps are critical to protect dogs – and children too. 

Cats aren’t known to enjoy swimming, but have also been the victims of swimming pools. When putting on pool covers, closing up sheds, or closing basement Bilco doors, always be certain that there are no animals trapped inside.

DOGS ON THE BEACH
Keep your dog under control and pick up after him/her. Check with your town or village for specific rules and regulations during the summer season. If you spend time on the water with your pet, make sure he/she wears a life preserver. Sunscreen might be required for pets with short hair, white fur or pink skin, click here to read more from Dr. Sarah Alward.

PETS IN THE GARDEN
Fertilizers and other garden products can be harmful to cats and dogs. If your pet licks or swallows garden products, call your vet immediately. ARF recommends using organic lawn fertilizers and advises pet owners to keep pets indoors and away from treated areas for a minimum of 24 hours. 

FLEA & TICK PREVENTION
Fleas and ticks are prevalent on the East End, so inspect your pet often and use a flea-and-tick preventative.