Summer Alerts

The summer months can provide a great opportunity to spend some quality time outdoors with your pet. However, summer also provides a few risks:

HEAT
Dogs and cats can only eliminate heat through the pads on their feet and by panting. This makes them extremely sensitive to the heat. Never leave a pet unattended in a car, since temperatures can rise to well over a hundred degrees in a very short time. Any pet who spends time outside must be given access to a large shaded area as well as plenty of fresh water at all times. Indoor areas must be well ventilated; air conditioning is preferable in our hot, humid climate. If you walk your pets often, be sure it is during the coolest time of day (either early morning or late afternoon).

TRAVEL
The same rules apply if you plan to travel with your pet. Plenty of fresh water, adequate ventilation, and access to shade are a must. Travel can be stressful to our pets, so provide them with frequent bathroom breaks on your trip. Some pets become so stressed that they may benefit from anti-anxiety medications. If traveling with your pet is not an option, choose a boarding facility that offers a temperature-controlled environment.

THUNDERSTORMS
Another source of summertime stress is thunderstorms. Storms are unpredictable, so avoidance of this stress can be impossible. Desensitization techniques can help your pet learn to cope with storms. Anti-anxiety medications, if necessary, may also help your pet in this situation. Consider a doctor consultation to discuss ways to minimize your pet's anxiety.

DANGEROUS SUMMER PESTS
Other creatures also enjoy the summer months. Snakes and stinging insects such as wasps, bees and yellow jackets are more abundant in warmer weather. Have your pet examined immediately by a veterinarian after contact with any of these pests. The proliferation of fleas, ticks and mosquitoes makes it all the more important that your pet be given its monthly heartworm and flea/tick preventative. Avoid animals that may carry rabies, such as raccoons or foxes. These animals are rarely out in the daytime and should run away if they come into contact with people. Call Animal Control if you see a raccoon or fox acting erratically during the day. If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a snake or stinging insect, please do not hesitate to call us.

Be safe and have fun in the sun!

Dr. Charles Livaudais