Lassie's vet answers questions about summer dangers for dogs
We received lots of great questions for Lassie's vet, Sofie, when we asked you to share your summer worries on social media! Here are some of the answers to your questions.
Increased temperatures
How often does your dog need to drink in summer? Should you always bring water for your dog?
Dogs are sensitive to heat because they can't sweat like we do. Their hydration needs vary depending on temperature, activity, and the individual dog. A small dog is more likely to become dehydrated than a large one. If you know you'll be out for a long time on a hot summer's day, it's a good idea to carry extra water for your dog. Remember, a dog can overheat even if they've drunk enough, if they're exposed to high temperatures – for example, in a hot car. For shorter walks on a cooler summer day, extra water usually isn't necessary, but always offer your dog fresh water when you get home.
Can a dog get heat stroke? How can you tell?
Yes, dogs can suffer from heatstroke. This can happen to pets exposed to high temperatures without the opportunity to seek shade and coolness, for example in a hot car, or if they're left in direct sunlight on a hot summer day. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition, so it's crucial to be alert to the early signs of overheating. These can include severe panting, excessive drooling, seeking shade, and bright red mucous membranes in the mouth. Your pet might seem anxious or more lethargic than usual. If it continues, they may start vomiting, have difficulty breathing, and even faint.
Bath
My dog usually drinks water from the lake we swim in. Could it be dangerous for him in any way?
I'd generally be cautious about letting your dog drink from lakes and seas between July and September when the water is warmest and may contain dangerous algae. You can't always tell if the water contains algae just by looking at it, so it's better to err on the side of caution if you're unsure about the water's condition. There's also a risk of your dog ingesting bacteria, parasites, and viruses, particularly from stagnant lake water. Therefore, I'd be careful about letting your dog drink from outdoor water sources at any time of year.
Insect bites and ticks
Do I need to see a vet if my dog is stung by a wasp/bee?
A wasp or bee sting is rarely dangerous for your dog or cat, so you don't usually need to seek veterinary care. There might be a small local swelling at the sting site, and your pet may be a little sore. Like humans, some animals can have an allergic reaction to an insect bite. If your dog shows general signs of illness or significant swelling, you should contact a vet. If the sting is around the face, mouth, or throat, you should also consult a vet, as severe swelling can affect your pet's ability to breathe.
Which tick remover should I buy for my 4-month-old puppy?
There are many different over-the-counter and prescription tick treatments available. Most are safe and work well if the puppy is over 8 weeks old and weighs more than 2 kilos. Which treatment is right for your puppy may depend on their weight, coat, bathing routine, and whether there are young children or other pets in the family. Personally, I like the chewable tablets that last 12 weeks, as they are effective, easy to give, and usually only need to be administered once or twice per season.
