Happy and Healthy Bull Terrier during This Labor Day
Oh mine! Labor Day weekend is here - we will be soon welcoming fall. But let's go over few reminders that many traditional Labor Day festivities and food can harm our furry friends.
Beat the heat.
Although it’s September, the weather can still be scorching. Bull Terrier can become dehydrated quickly, so be sure your friends are getting plenty of water - All your Friends! - especially if the weekend is packed with outdoor adventures. Make sure there are plenty of shady spots for your Bull Terrier to escape the sun, and avoid letting your pup linger on hot asphalt.
Chemicals?
Keep an eye on your chemicals. In the warmer months, many people keep a stash of sunscreen and/or bug spray nearby, but take note that chemicals in these products can be harmful to your Bullie. Ingestion of sunscreen products can result in drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy. The misuse of insect repellents can lead even to neurological problems. Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of Bull Terriers’ reach, too. And never apply sunscreen or insect repellent to your furry friend that is not labeled specifically for use on animals.
Keep your eyes on your plate.
Protect your plate - this can be tough. While it may be tempting to spoil your Bull Terrier with some scraps from the grill, remember that any changes to your Bull Terrier’s diet could result in severe digestive ailments. Keep them away from raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate and sugar-free products made with the sweetener xylitol, as these holiday favorites are toxic to pets—and never leave alcoholic beverages unattended where your Bull Terrier can reach them.
Guard that Grill
Guard the grill. In addition to keeping Bull Terriers away from the food on the grill - and it can be task on its own! Be sure to keep them away from the tools, particularly matches and lighter fluid, involved in barbecuing. Certain types of matches contain chlorates which, if ingested, can damage blood cells and result in breathing difficulties or kidney disease. Lighter fluid can irritate the skin and, if ingested or inhaled by a curious dog, can produce gastrointestinal irritation, central nervous system depression and aspiration pneumonia.
And yes, get a Life Jacket, please
Life jackets can be lifesavers. If you’ll be boating or spending time by the water, never leave your Bull Terriers unsupervised. Just like with people, it’s easy for your dog to develop a leg cramp while swimming, become exhausted too far from shore or get overwhelmed by tides. Please consider purchasing a life jacket for your Bullie. It’s easy to become distracted, and a life jacket can save a life.
When it comes to Fireworks
Don’t forget about the fireworks. Unfortunately, fireworks and dogs just don’t mix. Loud noises can be very frightening for Bullies. In fact, many dogs go missing after being scared by loud
noises. In addition, exposure to lit fireworks can result in severe burns or trauma, and many types of fireworks contain potentially toxic substances like potassium, nitrate and arsenic that can be deadly when ingested. Keep your pals calm and safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area.
And of course don't forget to check our shop.
Sources:
1. "How you can get involved in clear Shelter 2020!" https://www.aspca.org/news/how-you-can-get-involved-clear-shelters-2020; August 13, 2020
2. "Should you have your pet this summer"; https://www.aspca.org/news/should-you-shave-your-pet-summer; August 11, 2020
3. "Shop with your heart - Summer BBQ shopping list"; https://www.aspca.org/news/shop-your-heart-summer-bbq-shopping-list; September 1, 2020
4. "Tips for keeping your pets safe, happy and healthy this labor day"; https://www.aspca.org/news/tips-keeping-your-pets-safe-happy-and-healthy-labor-day; August 28, 2047