The first weeks of May have provided some welcome sunshine and even our first BBQ of the year! Although it’s not quite paddling pool weather every day, the warmer weather can pose problems and even dangers to our pets, even before we reach the heights of summertime.

We’ve all seen the poster, ‘Dogs die in hot cars’ but this is unfortunately very true. Dogs can over heat even in relatively mild conditions when shut in a car. Often not done on purpose, but it is very easy for dogs to sneak into cars and curl up asleep on the back seat unnoticed. The consequences can be fatal.

Brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers have shorter noses. Although they appear cute, this can cause significant health problems and a poor ability to tolerate heat. These dogs have narrowed tracheas and overlong soft palates. This reduces the amount of air they can move across their upper airways. Coupling heat and an inability to pant effectively can cause these animals to develop respiratory distress very quickly. Keep these breeds cool and avoid exercising them during the hottest parts of the day.

Another summertime danger dog owners do not always consider is cliffs. It is inconceivable to most of us that dogs do not see the dangers that cliffs pose but I have known dogs to literally, leap off. Sadly, every year this happens with frequently the most severe consequences. My sympathies go out to anyone who has found themselves in this position. Please keep your dogs on leads in these areas.

Insects become more prevalent with warmer temperatures. Dogs and cats find Bee and wasp stings painful too. Insect stings and spider bites can trigger off severe hypersensitivity reactions in the skin, thankfully anaphylactic reactions are very rare. Discourage dogs and cats from playing with insects and pick up windfall fruit before it rots and attracts wasps and dogs together!

Summertime BBQ’s provide our pets with a reward that is sometimes just too good to miss. It still surprises me what dogs will attempt to eat, how fast they can eat and what they are actually capable of swallowing. Whole pork ribs and corn on the cob to skewers are common perpetrators! I have removed all of these from dogs’ stomachs or intestines over the years. This included a six-inch wooden skewer that was poking out through the skin! Be vigilant and try to avoid leaving food unattended.

Enjoy your summer whether you’re home or away but remember a few pet precautions can make it a summer to remember for all the right reasons.

Just a reminder that we are once again the Official Veterinarians for the Sherborne Castle Country Fair on the 30th May. This year we have arranged for an ophthalmologist to attend with us. He will be conducting eye screening by appointment for your dogs throughout the day.

Please see our website for further information and prices or contact one of our surgeries for more details.