Summer Pet Care Tips

The summer heat can be brutal for your animal.  This season is your animal's greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems, so let's take a look at what you can do to help your pet this summer.

Watch for Signs of Heatstroke
Rapid panting, hot skin (bare skin, such as on the stomach), twitching muscles, and/or a dazed look can be signs of heatstroke. Wrap them in a towel soaked with cool (NOT COLD) water. In severe cases, place them in the bathtub with cool water. Heatstroke can be fatal. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Never Leave Your Pet in a Parked Car
Not even if you crack the windows or park int he shade. On a 70° day, the car temperature can rise above 150° in just minutes. It's extremely dangerous, and the number one cause of heatstroke.

Keep Vaccinations Up-To-Date
Summer is the time when pets come in contact with other animals at parks, campgrounds, etc.

Always Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Dogs can only sweat through the pads of their feet and by panting. Evaporation from the wet surfaces of their mouth and nose helps lower body temperature.

Stop External Parasites Before They Bite
Fleas, ticks and ear mites thrive in warm, humid environments. Talk to your veterinarian about treatment options for your pet.

Also Avoid Internal Parasites
Make sure your dog has been heartworm tested and is on a preventative.

Watch for ot Pavement and Beaches
Sensitive paws burn easily.

Find a Cool Spot
For indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a child-proof fan or air conditioner. Provide shade for outdoor pets. And a gentle sprinkle from a hose is always appreciated.

The Streets Aren't Safe
Don't let your pet roam. Just in case- make sure your pet is licensed. We see twice as many fight and bite wounds in the summer. And, of course, your pet is no match for a car.

The Yard Isn't Always Safe, Either
Be cautious of pesticides and herbicides. Read the precautions for lawn chemicals carefully and keep pets away from newly-treated yards. If pets come in contact with chemicals, wash their feet, abdomen and chest thoroughly, then contact your veterinarian.

It's Allergy Season
People sneeze. Pets scratch. Common pet allergies include pollen, grass and weeds. If your pet scratches excessively or chews at its paws, bring it in for an exam. We can design a program to help.

Watch the Exercise and Diet
Don't encourage exercise during the hottest part of the day. Let your pets eat less. Overeating leds to overheating.

Not every Dog Paddles Well
Animals in the water for the first time should be eased in, never thrown or chased in. Don't let them drink from pools, streams, or the ocean. And, if they swim, rinse them off. Salt and minerals can damage a dog's coat, and make them itchy.

Sunburn is No Day at the Beach
It hurts. Short-haired pets and those with pink skin and white hair are especially susceptible. Unfortunately there isn't pet sunblock. Simply limit their exposure.

Stings and Bites
Lots of dogs, and even cats, snap at bees and flies. Sometimes, a bee might sting your dog or cat, resulting in some local swelling. Call your veterinarian immediately if you think something may be wrong.

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