10 THINGS TO REMEMBER THIS SUMMER

1. Summer is coming up and the change in the weather also means some changes for your pet
2. If you suspect your pet is overheating, get them to a veterinarian immediately. Heatstroke can easily occur in all dogs, but you need to be extra cautious in brachycephalic dogs such as pugs, english bulldogs, and shih tzus. Brachycephalic animals have elongated soft palates that can interfere with their airway. Elderly, debilitated, and obese pets are also more at risk for heatstroke.
3. Rattlesnakes love the sun as much as we do and can cause danger to your pet if bitten. Rattlesnake venom poses a great threat to your pet's life. Animals that are bitten can develop severe swelling of the site, blood and heart abnormalities, and in severe cases, even death. If you believe your pet has been bitten, seek veterinary attention immediately. Many veterinarians carry Antivenin which will help reduce the effects of the venom.
4. Do not leave your pet in the car unsupervised. Temperatures can rise 20 degrees or more in minutes. Everyone loves to have their buddy travel with them to run errands, however during the warmer months, it is best to keep your fur friend at home. If your pet is left unattended in the car and you believe they may be suffering from heatstroke, take them to a veterinarian immediately.
5. Make sure your pet has plenty of water. If your pet stays outdoors, provide access to shade and water. Endless water feeders are great for the summer months, but need to be refilled daily. They provide your pet with continuous fresh water to meet their needs. Dog houses are a great retreat for your pet, however large shade trees and ready access to the indoors is best for the summer months.
6. Keep your pets indoors on the days before and following Fourth of July. Fireworks are unknown noises to your pets and they can injure themselves trying to get away. Large bangs and crackles scare your pet as they are unknown noises. Keep your pet close to you, indoors, and away from large glass windows or doors. Pets that are outdoors can be easily startled and run away into the street. If your pet is anxious during the holidays, speak to your veterinarian before the holiday about medication that can keep your pet calmed and relaxed.
7. Do not overwork your pet. Playing in moderate to high temperatures (75-100 + degrees) can overheat your pet and cause heatstroke, which is deadly in animals. Heatstroke can be deadly to your pet. Normal temperature for animals is between 101.0 -102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. In cases of severe heatstroke, animals' temperatures can raise to over 108.0 degrees. Temperatures as high as 108.0 can cause brain damage if treatment to reduce core body temperature is not initiated, conversely, moderate temperature increases such as 103.0-107.0 +, can also pose a threat to your pet. It is best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian if you suspect heatstroke.
8. Purchase animal safe snail bait. Metaldahyde, the common ingredient in snail bait, causes tremors in animals and in turn, your pet can overheat. Check the box before purchasing any garden or insect chemical. Many of them are deadly to your pet; however there are many pet safe chemicals on the market. If you see your pet eating snail bait or notice tremors, call or go to a veterinarian immediately. Not all baits and chemicals have the same ingredients, so in all cases, remember to bring the package with you to the vet. If you do not have the package, make sure you know the name of the bait or chemical. If you have a gardener it is also important to find out the names of the baits and chemicals used by their company.
9. Your pet cannot remove his/her fur coat during the warmer months. Keep your pet indoors if possible and provide them with plenty of water.
10. We like to have fun in the sun with our friends and so does your pet. Make sure your pet is fully vaccinated to prevent communicable viruses and diseases. Summer is a great time to interact with your fur friend and spend some time in the sun together. Viruses such as Canine Parvo can live in the environment for six months to a year. It is important that your pet has completed their series of vaccines prior to letting them interact with other dogs. Signs of Canine parvo Virus can include: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and anorexia. If you believe your dog may have Parvo, take them to your veterinarian immediately. Do not vaccinate your pet if they are already sick. Vaccines are preventative, not curative.