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This summer, watch out for these dog hazards
Out and About
Hot Weather
Danger: Dogs love sunbathing but can overheat or suffer sunburn in midday heat.
How to avoid: Keep dogs cool with shade, fans, and access to water. Avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Pavements & Roads
Danger: Hot surfaces can burn paw pads.
How to avoid: Test the pavement with your hand and walk your dog during cooler hours.
Blue-Green Algae
Danger: Common in warm weather, it can cause liver failure if ingested.
How to avoid: Keep your dog away from ponds or lakes that look green or have warning signs.
Toads
Danger: Toads secrete venom that is toxic if licked or bitten.
How to avoid: Supervise your dog outside, especially near water sources in toad-prone areas.
Drowning
Danger: Dogs may overestimate their swimming ability and tire easily.
How to avoid: Use a dog life jacket and avoid strong currents or open water.
At the Seaside
Sand
Danger: Ingesting sand can cause blockages, a condition known as sand impaction.
How to avoid: Discourage digging or sand eating and rinse toys before use.
Palm Oil
Danger: Found on some beaches, it can cause vomiting and even pancreatitis.
How to avoid: Supervise your dog at the beach and avoid suspicious white lumps.
Salt Water
Danger: Ingesting salt water can cause vomiting, dehydration, or seizures.
How to avoid: Offer fresh water often and prevent them drinking from the sea.
Fish Hooks
Danger: Dogs may swallow baited hooks, causing internal injury.
How to avoid: Steer clear of discarded fishing gear and keep dogs away from bait.
Home and Garden
Ticks
Danger: Ticks are active in summer and may transmit diseases like Lyme.
How to avoid: Check your dog after walks and use preventative treatments.
Bee & Wasp Stings
Danger: Can cause swelling, allergic reactions, or breathing issues if stung in the mouth or throat.
How to avoid: Supervise dogs around flowers and watch for reactions after stings.
Barbecues
Danger: Dogs may eat skewers, corn cobs, or bones that can splinter.
How to avoid: Keep them away from the grill and clear leftovers quickly.
Compost & Cocoa Mulch
Danger: Compost and cocoa mulch can contain harmful toxins to dogs.
How to avoid: Avoid using cocoa mulch and fence off compost heaps.
Plants & Flowers
Danger: Several species common in gardens are toxic to dogs.
How to avoid: Identify and remove toxic plants or use pet-safe alternatives.
Common Poisons
Ant Repellent
Danger: Contains chemicals that are highly toxic to dogs.
How to avoid: Use pet-safe products and avoid exposure during application.
Rat Poison
Danger: Ingesting even small amounts can be fatal.
How to avoid: Keep rat poison out of reach or use dog-safe alternatives.
Weed Killer
Danger: Can cause vomiting, burns, or worse if licked or stepped on.
How to avoid: Avoid treated areas and read product labels carefully.
Why Do Some Dogs Eat Anything and Everything?
- Natural scavenging behaviour
- Curiosity
- Boredom
- Previously successful ‘begging’
- Possible medical condition like diabetes
- Possible nutrient deficiency
- Dental reasons like teething