(Welcome to the weekly pet column of Pet Connection Programs Inc. of Marilla, N.Y. A new article is posted each week, so be sure to check back on a regular basis!)
As the temperature continues to climb, Henry Schein, Inc. is encouraging veterinarians and pet parents to discuss ways to keep animals safe during the hot summer months. To that end, Henry Schein Animal Health, the animal health subsidiary of Henry Schein, Inc., has made an infographic available for download that veterinary practices can post to their websites and share on social media and with their clients.
The infographic — which sources information from the Humane Society of the United States, among others — speaks to a number of summer-related health and safety issues, including:
• Heat stroke: Protect your pets from heat stroke, which occurs when your pet’s body cannot maintain its temperature in a safe range. Pets can suffer heat stroke if left in a parked car or when exercising strenuously in hot weather.
• Housing: Animals that are outdoors need shade and water at all times, though dog houses can become stifling in the heat.
• Summer travel: Before bringing pets on a trip, be sure to pack, among other items, health and vaccination records, medications, veterinarian’s information and a first aid kit.
• Water safety: When boating on open water, humans and pets should both wear life preservers should an accident occur. Pet parents should also be aware of dangerous currents when animals are playing in rivers, lakes and the ocean.
“Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors with your family, friends and pets, but it’s important to remember the unique health and safety challenges associated with warm weather,” said Fran Dirksmeier, president, Henry Schein Animal Health, North America.
— PRNewswire
(For more information on pets and animal adoption, please visit www.petconnectionprogramsinc.com. Or, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PetConnectionProgramsinc. Located in Marilla, N.Y., Pet Connection Programs Inc. is a nonprofit maternity and special care shelter founded in 1984.)