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Legal Beagle's Private Investigator

Bogart's Investigation On Keeping Your Pet Safe This Summer From Outdoor Hazards

Avoid Overheating: A quick clip might seem like the best way to help pups and kitties beat the heat. But shave coats too short and pets are actually more likely to become overheated, cautions Diane Levitan, V.M.D., director of the Center for Specialized Veterinary Care in Westbury, New York. That's because fur is a natural insulator: While in the wintertime it traps warm air against an animal's body, in the summertime it acts as a protective barrier that deflects the sun's heat. A safer bet: Ask your groomer to trim thick hair to one inch. The length eliminates bulk yet still provides enough insulation to ensure your cuddly creature won't get too hot.
Dodge Sunburn: Alert! Cats and dogs can get sunburned, too, and those with light hair or pale skin and pink noses are at greatest risk of sun-related damage. To prevent a burn, apply a peanutsize amount of sunblock to unprotected nonfurry areas, such as the tips of the ears and the nose, advises Lynn Buzhardt, D.V.M., of The Animal Center in Zachary, Louisiana. Look for a waterproof lotion ( like Coppertone WaterBabies SPF 30, $9 for 8 oz., at drugstore.com) that doesn't contain zinc oxide or PABA, which can be harmful to pets if ingested. For easy-on-you application, Dr. Buzhardt recommends slathering on sunblock during playtime or a petting session. Your critter will begin to associate the smear with something enjoyable, making it a cinch to prep her for sun-proof fun.
Keep Bugs At Bay: To keep your four-legged friend bugfree for next to nothing, mix 1 cup apple cider vinegar with 1 cup water, pour into a spray bottle and mist your pet's fur just before he goes outside. The acetic acid in vinegar slightly alters the pH of an animal's coat, shifting it from alkaline to acidic, explains Wendy Volhard, coauthor of Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog (Howell Book House, 2000). "Since fleas don't like an acidic environment, they stay off your pet." Bonus: Not only does the spritz give your furry companion instant protection, it also prevents bugs from being tracked into your house.

© Bert E. Kavich Productions. All Rights Reserved.

Legal Beagles Senior Advisor [ Malcom Pembroke ]

Dogs & Cats

Here Are Ten Early Cancer Warning Signs For Your Dog :

  • Abnormal swellings that persist or continue to grow.
  • Sores that do not heal.
  • Weight loss.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Bleeding or discharge from any body opening.
  • Offensive odor.
  • Difficulty eating or swallowing.
  • Hesitation to exercise or loss of stamina.
  • Persistent lameness or stiffness.
  • Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating.

Source: National Canine Cancer Foundation, www.wearethecure.org

    Protect your pooches paws this summer with  Muttluks - Made in Canada since 1994, Muttluks are not just fancy footwear for canines. They provide comfort, protection, and durability to keep paws healthy and safe. Muttluks come in two models - Fleece Lined Muttluks and All Weather Muttluks. www.muttluks.com

Thank You,