By Liz Conger, DVM
Des Moines Veterinary Hospital
SPECIAL TO THE HIGHLINE TIMES

The Northwest is providing one of the best summers ever to get outside and have fun with our dogs. Whether you are barbecuing or gardening in the back yard, enjoying an extended hike or participating in a walk for charity, it is always more fun to share it with your favorite pooch.

Cloudy and cool weather in the morning can change quickly to very warm sunny weather as the marine air clears. Dogs that are left in a car or in a back yard can quickly overheat.

Always have fresh water available. Provide shade in the backyard if they are outside while you are away. The inside of a car can get to well over 100 degrees even if you crack the windows.

Many workplaces, schools and stores do not allow animals to be brought inside so make certain you assure your best friend’s comfort and safety when you schedule your day’s activities. Heat stroke symptoms can include panting heavily, salivation and increased heart rate. This can proceed to collapse and death if not treated immediately.

Swimming is one of the of the more fun summertime activities. It is great exercise and sport for most dogs.

Some dogs simply do not care for the water. Others, such as pugs and bulldogs are not adept at swimming. Make sure your Pugsley is comfortable in the water. If you venture to Puget Sound, be aware of the currents that can be quite strong.

Eagles and other predators do hunt along the beaches because it is a wide-open area where it is easy to spot a Chihuahua or YorkiePoo. Many of the local lakes allow dogs to swim. Stay current as to official notices that can warn of toxic fecal contamination or blue-green algae bloom.

Back yards are a wonderful gathering place for friends, family and, of course, our favorite dog. It is a good idea to designate one person as BBQ Monitor so that the hot dogs or steak don’t mysteriously disappear.

Recent lawn treatment for fertilizer or weeds should follow all precautions so as to protect our furry friends. Most of the slug, snail and rat baits are toxic to dogs and cats but also attractive since the manufacturer adds sweetener so they attract the pests.

Hiking in the Cascades is a real treat and there is nothing better for Fido’s exercise and mental well being. Be sure that our 4-footed friends are in as good condition as you are. The wildlife such as raccoons can share some serious internal parasites or bacterial infection. Monitoring the dog for normal eating and eliminations after you get home helps obtain early treatment if needed.

If you are walking your partner on asphalt, be aware that it can become quite hot and burn the footpads. Choose your walk times in the morning or evening to avoid this.

With a little planning we can have a fun and adventure filled summer with our best friends by our side every step of the way.

(Truth about Cats & Dogs is a periodic column written by local veterinarians. Participating hospitals are Marine View Veterinary Hospital in Des Moines, Des Moines Veterinary Hospital and Burien Veterinary Hospital.)