[DOGS]

Oh boy, the Northern Virginia summer is here in full swing. Temperatures climb to the upper '90s and register in the 100s with the humidity pushing up the heat index.

That makes it difficult to walk your dogs as you've done in the past. Dogs don't perspire like we do; they shed their excess body heat through panting.

Do yourself and your dogs a favor and limit their walks to just the bare minimum. Your dogs are pretty smart. When it's hot and humid, I've noticed that the dogs that I walk do their business quickly in order to get back inside to the air conditioning.

Upon returning, freshen their water and monitor it often. You don't want to run out of water for your pet.

Chris and Ray
Christine's Pets
703-626-3829

[DOGS and CATS]

With Independence Day fireworks to start well before July 4th and last at least one day after, make sure that your pets have a safe place to hide.

Many pets HATE the loud noise that fireworks make, and may go through a lot of anxiety and stress.

If you know that your pet will be adversely affected by the loud noises, either take them to a friend or relative's home where fireworks won't be a problem (fat chance of that!) OR do the right thing and stay home and comfort your pet.

You may think it an imposition to stay home when everyone is enjoying the fireworks, but as a pet owner you may have to enjoy them by watching the display on television.

Do the right thing!

Chris and Ray
Christine's Pets
703-626-3829

[DOGS]

If you're using one of the new retractable leashes, keep your eyes on your dog to prevent a surprise dash into traffic.

Chris and Ray
Christine's Pets
703-626-3829

[DOGS AND CATS] KEEP YOUR PETS HYDRATED

Now that the weather is heating up, be sure to keep fresh water available for your pets. If you're going on an extended walk during the heat, consider buying a pet watering bottle that has an attached bowl on it for ease of use. REMEMBER, if you need water, your pet will need it as well.

Chris and Ray
Christine's Pets
703-626-3829

[DOGS]

Now that flea and tick season is upon us, talk to your vet about effective treatments.
When walking your dogs, stay out of the tall grass. After a walk, run your fingers over your ENTIRE pet and remove any ticks that you find. If you don't know how to remove embedded ticks, check YouTube for instructions.

Also, don't forget to check yourself for ticks after a walk!

Chris and Ray
Christine's Pets
703-626-3829