C o m p a n i o n s fun in the sun

by gerri reid, dvm

. Summer is here! Kids are starting to get out of school so let the FUN begin! It is time for long days at the pool, family gathering and lots of cookouts. And don't forget about Family vacations. But what about your pet? What should we do when we go away or even have people over? Well, let's talk about the precautions we should take for our pets this summer

Summertime is the time of the year where we spend more time outdoors. And pet owners tend to walk their pets more. Here a few tips to keep your pet safe when outdoors or walking. Be mindful of the pavement/asphalt. I always tell my clients that if you can't wake barefoot on it, your pet can't either. Damage to the paw pads is common injury at this time of the year And don't forget to bring some water along with you especially on long walks/hikes. Pets can suffer a heat stroke if out in the sun for extended periods of time. Always ensure your pet has a shaded area to lay in addition to fresh water. Remember, the best time to walk your pet is early in the morning or late evening when it is not too hot.

Many of us love to enjoy a day at the beach. And for some of us, we will bring our pets along to enjoy some fun in the sun and sand. When at the beach, I always suggest a life preserver for your pet Yes, dogs can swim but when at the beach they can get caught in a wave or a current. Be sure your pet does not ingest sand as this can cause digestive issues. Oh, and beware of sand fleas! Apply monthly flea/tick prevention to help prevent any infestation. For pets that are white in color, try to decrease their exposure to the sun as they can get sunburned easily Apply sunscreen to their ears and bridge of nose will help will in the sun. And don't forget, sand gets hot too, so avoid walking your pet on the sand when the sun is at its peak.

Dogs love to ride in the car with the windows down and their ears flopping in the wind. As we venture out with our pets in tow, remember to secure your pet in their seat You can purchase a pet seat pet online or at your local pet retail store. This will ensure their safety as well as your safety when driving. And if you decide to just "run" into the store to get something, the average person takes at least 10 minutes to come back out to their car. Leaving your pet is never a good idea as your car can heat up fairly quickly. The average temperature here in the summer is 85 degrees and in just 10 minutes, your car will feel like 104 degrees! Too many pets are loss due to the negligence of pet owners by being left in the car. So, it is wise NOT to leave your pet in your car for any amount of time

So, get outdoors with your pet and enjoy the Sunshine! As much as we love the summer, I think we all love our pets a bit more and want them happy & safe! Following these helpful tips will ensure you and your pet have the best summer ever!

Dr. Gerri S. Reid is the Owner/Veterinarian of Reid Mobile Veterinary Services. She can be reached at 540-623-3029 or reidmobilevetservices.com or facebook

@ReidMobileVetServices

The The Poetry Man Poetry Man

By Frank Fratoe Indescribable Indescribable

No one could declare by words all the feelings that we have especially in a grand moment whenever things come together and we view the backdrop of a cataract falling amid hills to announce its own presence which none can affirm better.

Yet narrators keep on trying to share inadequate verbiage as the hours pass until later when a twilight has concluded and stars mushroom overhead filling expanse far beyond us while onlookers reach within to proclaim the indescribable