Paws On The Pulse: Pets & Summer Safety

If you follow our blog, then you know that HoneyB likes to make an appearance and share her own views with a feature called ‘Paws On The Pulse Of Real Estate.’ This week, she is here to share some timely tips related to seasonal summer safety, as you may or may not know that the approaching 4^th of July is one of the most dangerous (not to mention scary!) times of year for our furry family members. Read on to learn more!

4^TH OF JULY FESTIVITIES: Did you know that 1 in 5 pets goes missing after being scared by loud noises, such as fireworks? Even in areas where they are not legal, sparks and shows run rampant so the best way to protect your pet is to: make sure they are inside and secured (take extra steps if you will not be home to monitor), verify that your pet has a current ID tag and registered microchip and keep a current photo on hand in the event you need to post on social media and make flyers quickly.

Other festive fun for us that poses a danger to our pets is those beloved barbecue scraps. Check this list from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)® of common foods that are actually toxic to pets. 

HEAT RELATED RISKS: We all know never to leave our pets in the car (even for a minute), but did you know that hot asphalt is another leading and often overlooked cause of burns and heat stroke? If you cannot walk barefoot on the ground, your pet should not either. Besides watching for temperature, the Humane Society of the United States advises against the dangers of humidity - which can cause a pet to be unable to cool themselves when too much moisture is in the air and they are heavily panting.

Another unknown heat related risk is the rise of heartworm disease in warmer weather, so it is extra important to stay on top of those preventatives. Finally, always keep multiple bowls of cool, clean water accessible to your pet both indoors and out.  Signs of heat stress include but are not limited to: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, and unconsciousness.

CHECK THE CHIP DAY: August is not that far away and marks an awareness event called Check The Chip Day. Occurring every year on August 15^th, the AVMA® urges pet owners to have their pet microchipped if they have not already done so, and to ensure that the contact information linked to the chip is current if your pet is chipped already. Only 6 out of 10 microchips are actually registered, yet microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners when lost. Cats are 20x as likely to be reunited when lost… amazing right? 

Last but not least… HoneyB wishes you and your four-legged family members a summer to remember, one that is filled with safety of course, but also happiness, hugs and comfort at home! 

Resources Used: AVMA® July 4th Safety, Keep Pets Safe In The Heat, Summer Pet Safety Tips, National Check the Chip Day

All my best,

Bobbi Decker
DRE#00607999

Broker Associate
650.346.5352 cell
650.577.3127 efax
www.bobbidecker.com
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