Growing puppies love to learn by exploring, tasting and chewing, so they need protection from garden and household items that are dangerous if swallowed.
- Use covered trash cans in your house and garage
- Keep kitchen countertops clean and clear of food items to reduce temptation
- Store household chemicals and poisons in a locked cabinet
- Keep toilet lids down so your puppy can't fall in or drink from the bowl
- Keep electrical cords and wires out of sight or secured to walls
- Keep dangling blind and curtain cords out of reach
- String, ribbon, yarn, sewing supplies and other small household items
- Paper clips, erasers, staples, rubber bands, plastic bags and twist ties
- Coins, small board game pieces, fragile keepsakes and ornaments
- Medication, vitamins, pill bottles, dental floss, razors and cotton balls
- Household and automotive chemicals ("pet-safe" antifreeze is available)
- Toxic garden plants, including lily, azalea, daffodil, tomato and hydrangea
We all like to spend more time outside when the weather warms up. But summer can be hazardous for your puppy, so he's going to need your help to stay safe in the heat.
Fun in the sun
Your puppy will probably love lying in the sun, but you must see that he doesn't become overheated, or even sunburned. At the hottest part of the day, encourage him to lay in the shade, or keep him indoors.
White dogs with thin fur and pale ears and/or noses can be particularly prone to sunburn. Your vet will be able to offer advice on the use of sunblocks and sunscreens if your puppy is vulnerable. He will recommend a non-toxic formulation, as dogs will instinctively lick off anything on their fur or skin.
If you come across an unfamiliar lesion on your dog's skin, get your vet to look at it, as it may be skin cancer. If caught early, skin cancers can be removed successfully.
Summer walks
When you walk your puppy in hot weather, keep it short and always carry some water and a bowl so you can stop frequently to let him drink and stay cool. A dogs can suffer heat exhaustion if exposed to extreme heat for too long.
If you think your puppy is suffering from heat exhaustion – symptoms include excessive panting and drooling – bathe him in cool water, wrap him in a damp towel, and call your vet straight away.
Summer refreshments
In hot weather, your puppy can lose moisture through panting, and he'll want to drink more water than usual. Make sure he's got fresh water in his bowl and perhaps put an extra bowl outside the kitchen door with ice cubes in it to keep it cool. But remember, water evaporates quicker on hot days, so keep it topped up.
Summer parasites
Parasites abound during hot weather, so you'll need to look out for fleas and ticks. Check your puppy's fur regularly, and don't forget his bedding, too. Your vet can advise you on the best preventative products to use during flea and tick season.
Summer cuts and scrapes
You'll probably take more walks in the summertime, so check your puppy frequently for cuts and scrapes, which could become infected if they go unnoticed. Also, grass seeds can become deeply embedded in the ears and between paw pads, and can even penetrate the skin and move around, causing infections. Small stones may also get stuck between your puppy's paw pads. These can cause problems if they are not removed immediately. Your vet can help you with treatment and advice.
Summer stings
Playful puppies find insects of all shapes and sizes irresistible and will take any they find on the ground and pop them into their mouth. If your puppy gets stung or bitten in his mouth or throat, or you suspect he may be allergic to stings, take him to your vet's clinic immediately.
Summer poisoning
Your puppy is more likely to stray into sheds and garages in the summer, and you never know what he might stick his nose into. Ensure your garden supplies and chemicals are safely out of reach. Always keep your puppy indoors if you're spraying plants or the lawn, or sprinkling any insecticide pellets.
If you think your pet might have been poisoned, take him to the vet immediately. If you think you know what he's eaten, take the packaging with you. This will help your vet quickly identify the right antidote.