Summer dangers for dogs

1. Heatstroke

One of the biggest summer dangers for dogs is the heat. Tragically, every year dogs die from heatstroke after being left in cars. Dogs can also develop heatstroke when exercising in hot weather, especially without access to sufficient drinking water. Dogs are very sensitive to heat because they cannot regulate their body temperature by sweating in the way that humans do. Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that causes great suffering and can cause serious damage to internal organs. Read our article for more information about how to recognise and treat heatstroke in dogs.

2. Grass seeds

Seeds from grasses and other cereals can be very troublesome if they find their way into a dog’s eyes, ears or nose. Grass seeds can also become lodged in the skin, causing irritation, swelling or painful abscesses. If a dog has irritation in any of these areas, look carefully for any grass seeds, pollen or dust. If you suspect that your dog may have a grass seed in its eye or ear, always consult a vet.

3. Ticks

Warmer weather throughout the year means that ticks are now active for most of the year. Ticks can transmit a number of diseases through their bites, including Lyme disease (borreliosis) and anaplasmosis, to dogs. Effective tick control is key to helping prevent these diseases: avoid tick exposure whenever possible, remove any ticks found on your dog promptly, and use a regular tick preventative treatment. Read more about ticks in dogs.

4. Algae poisoning

When blue-green algae bloom in lakes, ponds, rivers and slow-moving water, toxins can be released into the water. There are many species of blue-green algae, but only some produce toxins. If a dog drinks the water or swims in it, it can develop rapid and potentially fatal blue-green algae poisoning. Read more about how to prevent blue-green algae poisoning in dogs.

5. Barbecue and picnic scraps

When the weather is nice, many people like to have picnics and barbecues. Our furry friends have an excellent ability to sniff out and raid leftover food. As a dog owner, it is important to dispose of waste and leftovers carefully so that your dog can’t eat potentially dangerous items. Use a strong, sealable bag for waste, and dispose of it in a bin or keep it in a safe place where dogs cannot reach it.

Bags of rubbish can contain sharp pieces of glass, wooden skewers, metal grill racks or foil trays, as well as packaging and food scraps, such as cooked bones.If chewed and swallowed, bones can splinter and puncture the stomach or intestines, or become lodged in the dog's mouth, oesophagus or further down the digestive tract. Corn cobs are also indigestible and can easily become stuck in the intestine. Dogs with a foreign body or intestinal blockage will often start vomiting and show signs of abdominal pain. These cases are emergencies and may require surgery to resolve.

6. Insect bites

Bites or stings from insects such as wasps, ants and mosquitoes rarely make dogs seriously ill, but they can be itchy and sore. Some dogs, however, are hypersensitive and may have allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. The more bites or stings a dog gets at one time, the greater the risk of a more severe reaction. Signs of an acute anaphylactic reaction include swelling at the bite or sting site, hives, difficulty breathing, pale gums, collapse, and in severe cases, death. Itching, facial swelling, panting, vomiting and diarrhoea are further signs of an allergic reaction. If you notice any of these signs, seek prompt veterinary advice.

For dogs that are known to suffer from allergic reactions, we recommend keeping them supervised or on a lead. Keep dogs indoors during times of peak insect activity, and use pet-safe insect repellents or a pet T-shirt where appropriate. Pain associated with a sting can be reduced by holding a cold wet cloth, or ice cubes wrapped in a damp cloth, against the affected area. Remove the sting, if possible, and bathe the area with cool water. However, if your dog is stung by several wasps, by an entire swarm, or inside or around the mouth, seek veterinary advice immediately. Occasionally, your vet may prescribe corticosteroid tablets or a topical cream to reduce swelling and other signs.

7. ‘Hot spots’ (moist dermatitis)

In the summer, hot spots (moist dermatitis) are common, especially in dogs with dense coats and those that are bathed frequently. Hot spots often develop where a dog has been itching, for example on the neck or thigh. The skin becomes irritated and develops a red, inflamed, ulcerated patch. Bacteria multiply quickly in a warm, moist environment. Hot spots can spread rapidly and are often extremely painful. To help prevent them, dry your dog thoroughly after bathing or swimming. Prescription medication from your vet is usually required to treat a hot spot, which may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief. Read our article for more information about how to treat hot spots in dogs. Read more about hot spots.

8. Seawater

If dogs drink a large amount of seawater, they may develop salt poisoning (hypernatraemia). Mild cases may cause no signs or only a single episode of vomiting. In these instances, offer small amounts of fresh water little and often. Do not allow your dog to drink large volumes in one go, as this may trigger further vomiting. Next, offer a highly digestible meal little and often, such as a veterinary gastrointestinal diet, or cooked rice or pasta with a little cooked chicken/turkey/rice/white fish/egg. Signs of more severe salt poisoning include repeated vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, tremors, seizures and, in severe cases, coma. If your dog vomits multiple times, retches repeatedly, is excessively drooling, or shows any neurological signs, seek veterinary advice immediately.

9. Wounds

Small wounds and sores can often be taken care of at home, while large and deep wounds will usually need to be sutured by a vet. If your dog has difficulty standing or walking, is bleeding heavily, or appears to be in pain or shock, seek veterinary attention immediately. For severe bleeding, keep your dog as quiet as possible. Apply firm pressure to the wound using a clean dressing or cloth to help control the bleeding. If the bleeding soaks through, add another layer without removing the first, and repeat as necessary. If possible, carry your dog and keep them as still as possible on the way to the vet.

Superficial wounds or abrasions can usually be cared for at home. The most important thing is to keep the wound clean. Bathe the wound with clean, warm water or saline (1 teaspoon of salt in 500ml/1 pint cooled, boiled water). Flush dirt and debris out of the wound. Larger foreign bodies will need to be removed by your vet. Apply a sterile, unmedicated wound hydrogel and a sterile dressing. Check the dressing regularly, and change it daily for the first three days. Use an Elizabethan collar (Buster collar), inflatable collar or bodysuit to prevent your dog from chewing the bandage. We recommend keeping walks short until wounds have fully healed because movement and contamination slow down wound healing. Dog booties are useful for keeping paw bandages clean and dry outside.

Diluted Hibiscrub (1:20) can be used for heavily contaminated wounds during the initial clean, but prolonged use may slow healing as it can damage delicate healing tissue. It is important not to use any harmful chemicals, such as alcohol or iodine, which can damage healthy tissue and delay wound healing. Ointments and oil/paraffin based products should not be applied for the same reason.

Full-thickness wounds (all the way through the skin), wounds deeper than the skin, or wounds more than 1 cm long should be assessed by a vet. Wounds should ideally be sutured within 4-6 hours. Wounds over a joint must also be investigated by a vet. Other wounds, such as those affecting the paw pads, may be more difficult to assess, so we recommend seeking veterinary advice. Read more in our article about first aid for your dog.

10. Sunburn

Just like humans, dogs can get sunburn. Dogs with thin coats or very little fur are most at risk. Dogs with pink or pale skin have less of the protective pigment melanin in their skin, which increases their risk of sunburn. Dogs, like humans, may be at increased risk of developing skin cancer following repeated sun exposure and sunburn. To help prevent sunburn, use a pet-safe, fragrance-free sunscreen on exposed areas. If in doubt, ensure that your dog has plenty of access to cool, shady spots and avoid prolonged periods in direct sunlight.

11. Drowning

Dogs are often good swimmers, but each year in the UK, a number of dogs unfortunately drown. If a dog falls into the water from a boat, pool edge or jetty, it can be very difficult to get them out, especially if they are large. If they are unable to climb out by themselves, there is always a risk of drowning, even under close supervision. A dog that gets into the water will usually keep swimming until it becomes exhausted. Falling into the water unexpectedly can cause a dog to panic, which may lead to exhaustion much more quickly. A panicked dog can also be very difficult to rescue safely, especially if it is not wearing a life jacket.

To help a dog that has aspirated water, a quick response is needed. For small dogs, hold them vertically, with their head pointing down towards the floor, to enable water to drain out by gravity. For larger dogs, place them on one side, ideally on a downhill slope with their head and neck lower than their trunk, so that the water can run out. Carefully pull the tongue forwards and place it hanging out of one side of the mouth. Check that there is nothing inside the mouth and that the airways are clear.

If the dog is not breathing, cardiac resuscitation must be given. Contact your vet for instructions on how to do this and what steps to take before transporting the dog to a veterinary clinic. Dry the dog to prevent it getting cold (hypothermia) on the way to the vet.

How can you prevent your dog drowning?

• Always use a dog life jacket on a boat or around docks, even if your dog is well behaved. Dog life jackets have a handle on the top, making them easier to lift from the water.
• Never tether a dog by its life jacket, as fatal accidents can occur if they jump into the water and become caught on the lead.
• Help dogs to climb on and off boats, so that they do not slip.
• Make sure your dog has a sheltered berth on board.
• Always keep a close eye on your dog when they are near water.

12. Toads

The common toad (Bufo bufo) is found across Britain and much of western and central Europe, but is not found in Ireland. Toads have glands that secrete toxins. If a dog licks a toad or carries it in its mouth, it may develop signs of poisoning. These include excessive salivation or frothing at the mouth, vomiting, restlessness, pawing at the mouth and vocalising. The gums may also become bright pink. If this happens, rinse the mouth thoroughly with plenty of clean, running water, taking care to prevent the dog from swallowing the water. If signs are severe, persist, or you have any concerns, seek veterinary advice promptly.

13. Fly strike

Fly strike is most common during the warmer months, when flies are more active. Adult flies are attracted to wounds, faeces and warm, moist areas. They lay their eggs on fur that is warm and damp, or contaminated with faeces, urine or wound discharge. In as little as 24 hours, the eggs can hatch into larvae (maggots), which feed on damaged or unhealthy tissue. Fly strike is extremely painful and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. Dogs with dense coats, and those with diarrhoea, urinary incontinence or wounds are particularly at risk. Fly strike is also a serious concern for rabbits, especially during the spring and summer. Read more about how to protect rabbits here.

If you discover fly larvae, always take your pet to see your vet. The problem often appears smaller than it is because the larvae burrow into the tissue. At the vet, your dog will usually be sedated. The fur around the affected area will be clipped and all visible larvae removed. Pain relief, wound care and often antiparasitic treatment will be provided. To help prevent fly strike, check your dog's skin daily for wounds, skin irritation or faecal contamination. If necessary, bathe your dog with a pet shampoo and keep the fur around the back end clean and trimmed during the warmer months.

14. Fleas

There are two main species of flea that affect cats and dogs: the cat flea and the dog flea. Both species can infest cats and dogs. Fleas are rarely dangerous, but they can be very troublesome. Adult female fleas feed on blood while on the host before laying eggs, which fall into the environment (for example, carpets and soft furnishings), where the rest of the flea life cycle takes place.

Fleas can cause severe itching and skin problems, such as hair loss, dandruff and rashes. Areas typically affected are the lower back, flanks and base of the tail. Some dogs and cats develop an allergy to flea saliva, known as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), which causes intense itching and often secondary skin infections. Read more about fleas in cats and dogs, and how best to manage them in our articles.

15. Travelling abroad with your dog

Many people in the UK like to take their dog on holiday, either for a ‘staycation’ or abroad. It is important to know that travelling abroad can pose certain risks. In the UK, wild habitats have high populations of ticks, so it is important to have preventative treatments in place to avoid catching diseases, such as Lyme Disease. For trips to Europe, your dog will need to meet the current pet travel requirements, which may include a pet passport, vaccinations and parasite treatments. These take time to arrange, so please plan at least 3 months in advance of any anticipated trips to avoid disappointment. Certain parasites and infectious canine diseases are much more common in other countries, compared to the UK. In some cases, it may be more appropriate to find a dog sitter or boarding kennels for your dog whilst you go on holiday. Read our article for more specific information about travelling inside and outside the UK with your furry friends.

16. Other summer hazards

Snake bites

The summer heat attracts snakes, who bask in the sun to raise their body temperature. Fortunately, snake bites in the UK are rare. We have one venomous snake, the Adder, whose bite can be dangerous to both animals and people. If a dog gets bitten by an Adder, it can have serious consequences. It is important to know what to do if you suspect that your dog has been bitten. As a pet owner you will rarely see the snake, but may hear your dog yelp and run away from a particular place. A dog that has been bitten may quickly become quiet or lethargic. A painful swelling usually develops around the bite site, often on the nose or a leg. If you suspect that your dog has been bitten, keep them as still as possible to slow the spread of venom and take them to the nearest veterinary practice immediately. Treatment will often require hospitalisation for intravenous fluids with pain relief and close observation. Read our article for more information about how to manage snake bites in dogs.

Cold water tail syndrome

This is also known as limber tail syndrome, broken wag or broken tail. It’s formal name is acute caudal myopathy, and it is a relatively common condition in sporting dogs. The exact cause is unclear, but it is thought to be associated with swimming, vigorous exercise, or exposure to cold or wet weather. A limp tail usually confirms the diagnosis. Treatment involves rest, pain relief prescribed by your vet and gentle warming, if appropriate. The prognosis for a full recovery is excellent; most affected dogs will regain their tail tone and wag within a few days, although recovery can take up to a week. Read more about limber tail.

Fish hooks

Dogs who go out with their owners on a fishing trip can sometimes get a fishing hook stuck in their mouth or skin. Fishing hooks often have a barb to prevent the fish detaching. If this is the case, do not try to remove the hook backwards (the same way it went in) as you may cause more tissue damage, or get bitten. Instead, keep your dog as calm as possible and seek veterinary attention promptly. In many cases, fish hooks need to be removed by a vet under sedation or anaesthesia. These wounds typically heal quickly but should be assessed for tissue damage and the risk of infection.

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