To help keep dogs, cats and
other pets safe during summer adventures, consider these tips from the experts
at VCA Animal Hospitals, which has more than 1,000 locations across North
America that cared for more than 4.5 million pets last year.
Beat the Heat
Dogs and cats cannot control their
body temperature by sweating as humans do. They have a small number of sweat glands
located in their footpads and primarily regulate their temperature by panting. Vigorous
exercise, leaving a pet in a vehicle with poor ventilation – even if the
windows are down – or being left outside without shade and water on hot days can
lead to heatstroke, or hyperthermia.
Increased humidity combined with
warmer temperatures intensifies the risk of heat stroke, especially during the
first few warm days as pets transition to outdoor activity. If your pet exhibits
any symptoms of heatstroke – elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, lethargy,
disorientation, abnormal gum color, bruised gums or seizures – pour cool water
over your pet’s head, stomach and feet or apply cool, wet cloths, ensure continuous
airflow and see a veterinarian immediately.
Keep Ticks at Bay
As pets spend more time outdoors in
the summer, they’re often exposed to pests like ticks. Ticks can transmit serious
diseases to both dogs and cats. According to the Companion Animal Parasite Council,
as many as 1 in 20 dogs tested positive for tick-borne diseases in 2021. Ticks climb
onto pets from blades of grass or fall from overhanging trees and foliage. If a
tick finds its way onto your pet, use tweezers or disposable gloves to grasp
the tick as close to the skin as possible then pull straight out with steady,
even pressure until the tick releases.
If you find a tick, carefully
inspect all areas of skin, including behind the ears and between the toes, for
additional ticks. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area with
soap and water and wash your hands. Save the tick in a resealable plastic bag to
show your veterinarian and take note of the time and place the bite occurred and
any other details that may aid your veterinarian should an illness occur. Follow
your veterinarian’s advice about tick preventative measures, and make sure the
product is safe to be used for your pet’s size. Never use dog flea and tick products
on cats.
READ MORE: Protect your family from tick bites and Lyme disease
Travel Safely
If
you plan to travel with your pet, pack the necessities for your animal. Your pet’s
luggage should include food, water bowls, treats, a leash and collar, toys, medications
and printed copies of medical records, including vaccination history. Check
with your veterinarian to determine if a health certificate is needed for
travel. Also ensure your pet is comfortable with his or her crate or carrier before
flying or embarking on a long road trip.
Knowing
where to take your pet in case of an emergency while away from home is also essential.
Look up emergency veterinary clinics near your destination before departing or
ask if your vet offers virtual care options. For example, through the myVCAapp, you can access 24/7 live chat with licensed veterinary professionals.
Manage Allergies
Many
of the same allergens that affect humans impact pets. Atopy, also known as inhalant
allergy, is a common cause of skin problems in dogs and cats. Affected animals
often have a history of chronic or recurrent itching and tend to have a history
of repeated skin or ear infections. Itchy pets tend to scratch themselves, lick
their feet and rub on furniture or carpet. Atopy can also cause cats to groom
excessively and develop bald or crusty spots on their skin.
Some
allergies may also affect the respiratory or digestive systems or the eyes. If
your pet is displaying signs of allergies, your veterinarian can recommend
appropriate testing and treatment to reduce symptoms.
Visit vcahospitals.com
to find more ways to keep pets safe throughout the summer and book an
appointment.