How to Keep Thick-Coated Dogs Cool During the Summer
How to Keep Your Cat Stimulated through Games
What to Do If you See a Scared Animal Running in the Street
How to Keep Thick-Coated Dogs Cool During the Summer
Summer is hot for people not to mention dogs. It can be even more uncomfortable for thick-coated dogs. However, there are things you can do to help keep your dog cool.
If you’re thinking of shaving your dog, hold on! It’s not necessarily the best idea.
According to the article, “Heat Wave Approaching! Should You Shave Your Pet?” at ASPCA.org, “While you or I would hate to sport multiple layers in 100-degree weather, your pets’ fur coats are actually providing them with heat relief.” Actually, that coat is like insulation for your dog, and “keeps him from getting too cold in the winter, but also keeps him from overheating in the summer,” the article said.
If you shave that coat, it can bring on discomfort, overheating, and even sunburn or skin cancer.
Some vets may suggest shaving down a dog with a thick coat if the dog doesn’t do well in the heat. “Actually, any dog can suffer sunburn, so if you do shave your thick-coated dog, be sure to leave at least an inch of hair to protect your pet from the sun’s rays,” according to the article, “Should You Shave Your Pet for Summer?” at Fetch by WebMD.
Here are tips if you decide to shave your dog, according to the Fetch article:
• If you are inexperienced, see a professional groomer to avoid any accidents.
• When shaving your dog yourself, make sure the clippers are cool, so take breaks.
• Make sure to leave at least an inch of your dog’s hair for protection.
• Do not shave your dog too close to the skin.
Other tips to keep your thick-coated dog cool include making sure he has lots of cool water and shelter, ensure you brush his undercoat, and keep him cool and indoors.
How to Keep Your Cat Stimulated through Games
If you have a house cat, then you know that it is important to keep her physically and mentally active. While it’s safer to keep cats indoors, it can sometimes mean a bored cat who is not getting enough stimulation.
“So, we need to get our cats up and moving, and there’s no better way to coax out their natural instincts to stalk and chase prey than by engaging them with toys,” according to the article, “Playing With Your Cat: Toys and Games” at Fetch by WebMD.
Some toys that offer stimulation for cats include:
• Wand toys. Easily put together one at home using fabric and a stick that you can wave and circle in front of your cat.
• Ball toys. These can mimic mice, and your cats will be likely to chase. Easily scrunch up a paper ball at home or buy a ball.
Cats who lack stimulation can become destructive. You may see signs of a bored cat if they scratch and claw at things in your home, according to the article, “5 Brain Games You Can Play With Your Cat,” at The Purrington Post.
Brain games will not only help stimulate your cat but help the bond you have together. The Purrington Post recommends the following:
• Paw Pinata Play. It’s easy to create at home with a paper bag and cat treats. Make small cuts in the bag and fill with the treats. Hold the bag over your cat. The smell will entice your cat to bat the bag and release the treats.
• Treasure Hunt. Hide your cat’s food throughout your home to allow your cat’s hunting skills to find the food. It’s very stimulating for felines.
There’s so many options when it comes to stimulating games for cats and you’ll both be better for it.
What to Do If you See a Scared Animal Running in the Street
A feeling of helplessness can come over you if you spot a scared animal running in the street. What can you do to help and prevent the animal from getting hurt or even hit by a passing car?
First try to ensure you don’t cause an accident if you’re driving, so pull over. Next, try to catch the animal in a safe manner, according to the article, “How to help a stray pet,” at The Humane Society of the Unites States (HSUS).
The animal may be scared, injured, or sick, and there’s no telling how he will behave. You could accidentally scare the animal and he could take off into traffic, which you want to avoid. And, if the animal seems threatening, you want to stay safely away in your car.
If you feel you are able to try to capture the animal, “Create a barrier or use a carrier, leash, piece of cloth, or length of rope to keep the animal in the area,” the HSUS article said. Be very cautious to try not to get bitten or scratched.
You can try to lure the animal into your car with treats and speak calmly. “Turning a bit sideways can help you seem less intimidating to a scared dog, along with slow movement,” according to the article, “What to Do When You Find a Lost Dog” at Preventive Vet.
For an animal who is aggressive or if you are unable to capture him, call the police or local animal control for help.
If you do capture the animal, check for a collar and tags and get to a local vet to check for a microchip to find if there’s an owner. You can also contact your local animal shelters as well as spread the word with “Found Dog” flyers.
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