Summer is coming

With the summer season on our doorstep, it's time to remind people of some basic tips about your pets and warm weather.

Here's information from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

A few of my favorites:

• Never leave your pet alone in a vehicle — hyperthermia can be fatal. Even with the windows open, a parked automobile can quickly become a furnace in no time. Parking in the shade offers little protection, as the sun shifts during the day.

• Always carry a gallon thermos filled with cold, fresh water when traveling with your pet.

• The right time for playtime is in the cool of the early morning or evening, but never after a meal or when the weather is humid.

• Provide fresh water and plenty of shade for animals kept outdoors; a properly constructed doghouse serves best. Bring your dog or cat inside during the heat of the day to rest in a cool part of the house.

For information from the Humane Society of the United States, click here.

A couple of things they say:

It is very dangerous, and in some states illegal, to drive with a dog in the back of a pick-up truck. Not only can flying debris cause serious injury, but a dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic if the driver suddenly hits the brakes, swerves, or is hit by another car. Dogs should ride either in the cab (in a crate or wearing a seat belt harness designed for dogs) or in a secured crate in the bed of the truck.

Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. But beware: Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. In addition, more than 700 plants can produce physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals.

With people and dogs spending more time outside, dog bites are likely to increase in the summer months. Spaying or neutering your dog reduces the likelihood that he will bite and provides many other health benefits.

All that said enjoy the summer.

I will be taking next week off, but I have pre-posted a few videos for your amusement.