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Keeping Pets Cool This Summer It’s great to enjoy
summer with your pet. But it’s also the time when they have the
greatest risk of injury and heat-related health problems. So here are
some tips on keeping things cool this summer. WATCH FOR SIGNS OF
HEATSTROKE. Rapid panting, hot skin, twitching muscles, a dazed look.
Wrap them in a towel soaked with cool, not cold, water. In severe cases,
place them in the bathtub. Heatstroke can be fatal. See us as soon as
possible. NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET
IN A PARKED CAR. Not even if you crack the windows or park in the shade.
On a 70-degree day, the car temperature can rise above 150 degrees in
minutes. It’s extremely dangerous, and the Number One cause of
heatstroke. KEEP VACCINATIONS
UP-TO-DATE. This is the time when most 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. See us for a preventive program. ALSO AVOID INTERNAL
PARASITES. Be sure your dog has been heartworm and fecal tested and is
on a preventive heartworm medication. WATCH FOR HOT
PAVEMENT. Sensitive paws burn easily. FIND A COOL SPOT. For
indoor pets, keep the air circulating with a childproof fan or air
conditioner. Proved shade for outdoor pets. 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 injuries and bite wounds in 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 us. BRUSH. Frequent
brushing provides early warning of parasites and skin infections by
lifting the coat, permitting a view of the skin below. 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. And
let them eat less. Overeating can lead to overheating. NOT EVERY DOG PADDLES
WELL. Animals in 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. SUNBURN IS NO DAY AT THE BEACH. It hurts. Shorthaired pets and those with pink skin and white hair are especially susceptible. Limit their exposure.
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| Office Hours (Veterinarian Available) Mon: 7:00AM - 8:00PM Tues - Thurs: 7:30AM - 8:00PM Fri: 7:00AM - 6:00PM Sat: 8:00AM - 4:00PM Sun: 9:00AM - 11:00AM (Emergency Only) |
