08/05/2015
Good Evening IK9 Family,
Well it's no secret, at least in NC, that summer is here and in effect. With summer comes plenty of fun activities for both you and your four-legged companions. So while we're enjoying the warm weather let's not forget to make sure our four-legged friends enjoy it as well.
So here are 3 quick tips to helping your Doberman, or any other companions, stay fit for the summer.
GO TO THE VET - Visiting the veterinarian for summer is very key. Make sure your pets get tested for heart-worms if they aren't on year-round preventive medication. With warm weather comes bothersome parasites, bugs and mosquitoes that can send your vet bill sky high. We personally use K9 Advantage but check with your vet, use what is recommended, safe and effective in your area for a thriving flea and tick control program.
SHADE SHADE SHADE - Like humans, Dobermans can get dehydrated quickly, so give them plenty of fresh and clean water when it's hot outdoors. Provide shady areas to give them a break from the sun. Be sure not to over-exercise them, and keep them indoors when it's extremely hot.
WATCH THEM CLOSELY - Keep your eyes open for an overheated companion. These signs may include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. They can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees. Dobermans in particular have longer faces but dogs with flat faces, like Pugs & Bulldogs are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. At IK9s, during the summer we tend to shave a little weight off our Doberman males just to ensure that they have less weight to wear and tear on their bodies. Don't worry, they'll pick the weight back up in the Fall.
So continue to enjoy the summer and stay cool.
Thanks Again!
Mr. Jae