Here in Arizona, a super common thing this time of year for us pet lovers is to hike with our pets, because we are cooped up during the hot summer months. The weather is warming up, yet still moderate. We have beautiful blue skies most days. Birds are chirping. What better thing to do than to get out and enjoy it with our fur babies. We walk around our neighborhoods, hike down the many canal trails, walk around the beautiful parks or hike one our many trails that are so close to home. But are you really ready? Do you know the possible dangers? What do you do if something goes wrong?
According to the experts at PetTech, these are the top 6 problems that you may encounter while hiking with your pet:
#6 Wounds & Trauma
Including bites, cuts, lacerations, punctures, falls or blunt force trauma.
#5 Extremity Injuries
Limb injuries can include anything from an abrasion on the paw to a compound fracture to scratches and scrapes on the legs and paws. Most of these injuries are preventable with proper care and handling of your dog. The most common will be injuries form over exertion such as strains, sprains, muscle and tendon tears, swelling, etc.
#4 Exposure To Extreme Temperatures
Heatstroke can be caused by pets being in confined spaces with little or
no ventilation or water (think car), warm weather with high humidity,
over exertion and stress. Dogs cool themselves by panting, passing
cooler air over their gums and tongue. Short-nosed breeds (i.e.
Pekinese, Boxers, Pugs) are more susceptible to overheating as their
“radiator” (mouth and gums) are too small for their body size.
And don’t forget burned paw pads! In Arizona that is an incredibly common injury. If you are not comfortable walking on the pavement in bare feet, then PLEASE do not make your pet do it.
#3 Snakebite
Snakebites are very dirty wounds. Whether the bite is venomous or non-venomous, the pet needs wound care and antibiotic treatment.
#2 Poisons, Toxins & Parasites
Dogs are inquisitive in nature and will follow their nose wherever it takes them. Some dogs will eat anything once and sometimes twice! So, you have to be careful not to leave your dog unattended. Certain plants can be lethal if ingested. Exposure to or ingestion of contaminated water, poisonous
plants, mushrooms, infected animals and parasites can be dangerous for your dog.
And the #1 injury you may encounter while hiking with your pet….
Insect Bites, Stings & Allergic Reactions
Can be caused by ants, bees, hornets, wasps, and spiders. Dogs are
inquisitive and get into colonies or holes where these insects live. The
biggest danger is a severe allergic reaction. Unless you observe the pet
being stung or bitten, you may not be immediately aware of what is
going on.
Come to one of our PetTech training classes and learn what to do! Classes are listed on our calendar. Or schedule a private class for a group or family.
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