Careful what your dog eats when you’re not looking, and other canine care tips!!! ???

We tend to focus on our own problems and worry about ourselves so much when it comes to things that threaten our health. Threats such as Salmonella poisoning are something that can cause panic. We can make purchasing decisions and take precautions for ourselves, but let’s consider our canine friends and be careful when it comes to their health as well.

Be careful of what your dog eats when you’re not looking.

The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation puts out a warning for symptoms to look out for in dogs that might signify poisoning. Symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea are an indicator of Salmonella poisoning canines. Dogs may become lethargic if they are infected and if the dog has Salmonella it can suffer from dehydration, so alert your vet if you think that your dog is sick.

Just like humans, dogs might contract Salmonella from consuming contaminated food. Raw meat, eggs, garbage and dead animals can all carry Salmonella. The FDA has launched a study recently to examine pet food samples and nutritional supplements to make sure they are safe and free of the poison. If properly treated, most dogs will be able to recover from Salmonella poisoning, says the AKCCHF.

Be careful yourself! Handling contaminated dog food can be a risk of becoming infected with Salmonella for humans. You should always wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling dog food.

Dog shoes are an easy way to keep your pup’s feet protected from the hot ground.

Food safety is one thing but remember that in caring for your dog there are other things to consider about his or her safety as well. For instance, the hot blazing sun is too hot for us sometimes, so think about your dog. Don’t neglect your dog. You can easily buy dog shoes that will keep your dog’s feet protected from the hot ground, and you can also keep him or her inside for the hotter portions of the day.

Keep your dog hydrated. On average, a healthy dog should be drinking about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. More water is better when the sun is as hot as it is.

Be careful when walking your dog in the hot sun, and don’t walk for too long. Make sure Fido can keep up. Try to go for long walks in the early morning even before the sun is fully up, as to make most of the cooler air. Even an evening walk when it is dim outside can be a better experience than what can take too much energy out of a dog when it is hot.

Your dog relies on your help, so make sure to take good care of your dog.

A member of the canine species looks out towards the desert. -Photo by Laura Green