Helpful pet safety tips for summer

JACKSON, Tenn. — Summer is such an exciting time of year. There are backyard BBQs with friends, road trips, camping excursions — you name it!

If you’re planning on including your little adventurer in any of these summer escapades, it’s important that you keep their safety in mind. Here are some helpful tips.

• Fireworks can be very upsetting to dogs, but fortunately there are ways to help keep them calm.
• The biggest tip is to bring them inside when fireworks are going off.
• Taking them to a quiet place in the house, such as a basement or closet, can also help minimize the sounds and reduce anxiety.
• If you’re preparing to take your sidekick on the road with you, it’s also a good idea to call ahead to make sure your hotel, park, or campsite allows dogs or cats.

Here are some important things that pet owners need to be aware of during the hot summer months.

“Parasites, fleas, ticks, heartworms and also the diseases that can be communicable are really contagious to pets as well. So by setting up an appointment with a veterinarian in the spring, you’ll have an opportunity to create a preventive care plan for your pet, and that can decrease the likelihood of them becoming exposed to those conditions that are preventable,” said Dr. Taneeka Bautista, director of veterinary quality at Banfield Pet Hospital.

Whatever your summer plans are, the Banfield Pet Hospital hopes you have a fun and safe time with your adventure buddy!

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