Fireworks, Heat and Water Hazards Make Dog Days of Summer Dangerous Time for Pets

Philadelphia, Pa. (PRWEB) June 9, 2009

With summer finally upon us Petplan USA (http://www.gopetplan.com), America's top-rated pet insurance service, has launched an educational campaign to alert pet parents of the hazards lurking amid lazy, hazy days of relaxation. Petplan is also advising families that they should consider the needs of their pet when travelling on vacation.

Summer problems for pets range from the surprising to mundane. Out of the163 million dogs and cats in the US, one in every 71, 000 will get struck by lightening according to the American Pet Association. But for the summer, when Americans do the most driving, a more alarming statistic is that one in 242 dogs and cats will die in a car crash each year.

"Summertime should feel carefree but, for pets, it can prove highly stressful," says Dr. Jules Benson, Petplan USA's staff veterinarian. "With all of the distractions of summer, it's a pet parent's responsibility to keep a vigilant eye on their pets well being."

Dr. Benson suggests the following "Tips On Keeping Your Pets Safe In The Summer"

• Parked cars: In the heat of summer days keep pets at home whenever possible. It seems obvious but people forget that even a car with open windows is no place to leave a pet. Indoor temperatures are often 20 degrees higher than outdoors.
• Jogging: If you are a jogger, remember that some dogs are wearing winter coats so, if you must bring them, plan your runs for early morning or late evening.
• Lightening/thunder: Dogs and cats are highly sensitive to harsh light and sounds, so a fun celebration of fireworks can feel like a war zone for them. Keep pets away from extreme sensory experiences whenever possible.
• Fire: Everyone loves a summertime barbeque but pets and fire do not mix. Keep the two separated at all times including at camp fires.
• Water: Many pets don't take to water. If they can't swim or climb well, you should ensure they are kept away from swimming pools.

For vacationing families Dr. Bensons suggests remembering to save room in the car for pet needs. "Don't try to travel too light and end up forgoing essentials," he cautions. He advises packing a pet first aid kit, life vest, disposable litter box and even pet sunscreen. The Petplan USA Web site offers additional pet care suggestions, newsletter sign up and a downloadable "rescue alert" sticker to protect pets during catastrophic emergencies. All are available at: http://www.gopetplan.com/ and http://blog.gopetplan.com

About Petplan
Petplan is the world's largest and America's #1 rated pet insurance provider, recommended by more pet parents, veterinarians and pedigree breeders than any other. Petplan's unique policies cover hereditary conditions fully for the life of the pet. Through a choice of three simple customizable policies Petplan allows pet parents to select the coverage that meets their needs and budget. As the exclusive pet health insurance provider of The Humane Society of The United States (HSUS), Petplan contributes a percentage of revenues back to the HSUS every year. Petplan policies, in the US are underwritten by American National Property And Casualty Company (http://www.anpac.com) and North American Elite Insurance Company, rated A+ (Superior) by AM Best. http://www.GoPetplan.com

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