Westie Rescue of Missouri

Nothing can herald Spring & Summer like the
West Highland White Terrier

Spring is around the proverbial corner and squirrel-chasing season is on! With warm weather comes a new set of issues for our furry friends. Therefore, the families at Westie Rescue of Missouri want to give you our Top Ten Reminders to help all of you enjoy the warmer months ahead. Are you ready ? Lets Go!!

1. Water, water everywhere.... Keep water out at all the times for your dogs. They will be drinking much more than they did in the colder months. Keep your dogs bowl in the shade and check it often. HOWEVER, empty all items that are holding standing water around the outside of the home. This is a breeding ground for pesky mosquitoes!

2. Pesky pests are back... No, not the neighbors cats. But, heartworms, fleas and ticks. You might consider putting your pet on a preventative that guards against all three of these. Remember, your pet should really be on heartworm preventative all year round and if they have fallen off the wagon, a heartworm test at the vet's office will be in order before you should begin the preventative again. It only takes one bite to infection your precious pooch with the deadly heartworm and the treatment is horribly painful and expensive! If you opt for sprays or powders, try something natural first. Many of these products can be full of chemicals and are just too harsh for sensitive skin.

3. Made in the shade... Not only can dogs overheat easily, especially in humid weather, dogs can sunburn too. If your four-legged friend has white fur or thin spots, a sunscreen might be a good idea, especially if they will be out for extended times. Use a PABA-free sunscreen and re-apply as needed. Did you know dogs can get sun cancer just like we can? If you dog has to be outside for extended periods, make sure they have a shady spot where they can stay cool.

4. Hit the road... As you have heard a thousand times DO NOT LEAVE PETS IN THE CAR. Even if you think it will "only be a minute," a car can reach 120 degrees in matter of minutes. If you have things to do, leave fido at home.

5. Summer strolls... But, remember, you dog doesn't sweat to cool off like we do. They pant. In hot humid weather it becomes difficult for you dog to stay cool. Walk your dog in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. The temperatures are down where your dog is walking is several degrees WARMER than where you are! So, remember that as you think about walking in the heat of the day.

Very young, older and ill dogs, as well as short-faced breeds (such as pugs, Pekinese, etc) are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Know the signs: widened eyes, intense rapid panting, vomiting, dark red gums, weakness, and staggering. Heat stroke can result in death. If your dog shows these signs, cool them off with a damp towel or water and see your vet ASAP!!

6. Puddles are a no-no... Don't let your pet drink from puddles or run-off. These can be filled with anti-freeze which can have a sweet taste that dogs like. Anti-freeze is very toxic. It only takes less than a TEASPOON of antifreeze to kill your dog! Also, puddles can have 'things' in it that you and I don't see. Parasites and disease!! Bring a cool bottle of water (and a collapsible bowl) along with you for your pet as you walk is the best preventative.

7. Air out the house... It's time for spring cleaning and throwing open those windows that have been sealed shut all winter. But remember, screens are not designed to keep dogs or children from going through them. Be watchful and especially with windows on higher levels of your home. Also, use caution for pets and humans alike when using detergents and cleaning solvents - some could over take you in a matter of minutes. Make sure there is plenty of fresh air moving through your area as you clean.

8. Time to open the family pool... It that time of year, but remember to keep pets away from the water unattended. Once in the water, even swimmers can drown when they tire and can't find the steps to get out. The same is true for hot tubs. Hundreds of thousands of children and pets sadly die when eyes are turned away from a swimming pool for even a moment. PLEASE NEVER leave children or pets alone and unattended by a swimming pool. For your pets (and even some of those silly critters hanging out in trees or ponds) consider picking up a cheap alternative that could save their lives! The Skamper Ramp!! Inexpensive and easy to use!

If your dog does enjoy a swim, be sure to dry them off after swimming, especially in humid weather. This will help avoid bacteria build-up leading to hotspots, among others things. Same goes for the ears. Salt and chlorine can dry out their skin and cause irritation, also.

9. Greening the lawn... Lawn fertilizers can be poisonous to dogs. Wait at least 24 hours before you allow your pets on the yard after fertilizing. Read labels, most pesticides are toxic to dogs. That slug killer you put out could have unwanted results. Keep all these chemicals out of reach of your pets. Remember too, you dog doesn't have to eat the poison to be affected. Ingesting something such as a mouse who has been poisoned, will poison your pet.

You should also pick out any mushrooms you see growing in your yard. Many of these are toxic to dogs and sadly thousands of pets die a year before the owners even realize what has happened.

10. Critters that kill! This summer, take the time to research what reptilians and other critters that live in your area that could kill your pet. Some states have poisonous snakes, frogs and so on. Others have killers lurking just below the water - the frightening alligator! You AND your pet should NEVER go to the edges of unknown bodies of water in the areas known for such things living just below the surface. Then there is the wolf, coyote, mountain lion, cougar, bear, just to name a few. While you may feel relatively 'safe', your pet is not. They appear to such predators as the next meal. Smaller dogs under 10 lbs should particularly be leashed in areas of flying predators such as the hawk or eagle. From afar, your wee one could be mistaken for a baby bunny. Even in leash free parks - its probably best to keep them close to you.

We hope these tips will help ensure that your spring and summer is a safe and happy season! From the families of Westie Rescue of Missouri to yours
- Rescue 'till you drop!