Summer Tips for your Pet
Exercise and the Environment:
- Remember your pet has had decreased activity over the winter. Work slowly up to long hikes; carrying dogs back to the car is tough!
- Feet are a sensitive subject. Hikes/walks on rough surfaces can abrade or burn pads. Check your pet’s feet often. Conditioning is important to get the pads in shape.
- Heat stroke: Remember, pets need to pant to cool off. If your pet is panting heavily let him/her rest in the shade with water. If heavy panting continues seek veterinary care!
- Metal lawn edging: Running and playing in the back yard can be dangerous. Lacerations from lawn edging are all too common. If there is metal lawn edging present, either remove it or make sure all areas are covered with plastic capping. Check the plastic capping frequently for damage, your dog will find the one inch section that is not protected! Inspect all unknown areas for lawn edging before allowing your dog to play.
- Giardia can be transmitted by drinking from and swimming in lakes and streams. Call our hospital for more information regarding the disease and protective measures.
Vacation/Traveling:
- Make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Does your kennel require the Giardia or Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations?
- Are you traveling in a region that has fleas or ticks? Please contact us for prevention recommendations.
- If you are traveling by car or plane out of state or country, you will need a health certificate for your pet. Please call our hospital for more information.
- Make sure your dog is current on heartworm testing and preventive.
- NEVER leave your pet alone in the car! Temperatures can increase in cars rapidly and can be life threatening, even with the windows partially open.
Household Information:
- Bee stings/insect bites: Swelling of the face can be very painful or itchy. Call immediately if hives (raised bumps on the face or body) or facial swelling is seen.
- Most fertilizers, weed killers, and insect repellants are toxic to pets. If you use these products make sure your pets do not have access to them or to the treated areas.
- Rat and mouse poisons will also kill pets. Keep these products away from your pets.
Please check back monthly for new Health Care Topics.
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