Spring & Summer Pet Care Tips

1.     Heartworm Disease:  Heartworms are parasites transmitted by mosquitoes that can potentially be fatal to your dog or cat. Many people are familiar with heartworm disease in dogs, but are unaware that cats may also contract the parasite (it was reported in cats in 38 states by the American Heartworm Society); in fact, cats infested with heartworms often have more severe clinical signs than dogs and a poorer prognosis. Have your dog or cat tested and ask the veterinarian about the preventatives.

2.     Fleas and Ticks:  Fleas are insects and ticks are small spider like acarids, but these two tiny creatures have one thing in common—they both feed on your dog’s or cat’s blood and can cause a lot of discomfort and more serious health problems. Fleas can transmit several diseases, as well as tapeworms. Ticks are carriers of a number of diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever which can be transmitted to humans. The best way to control fleas and ticks is to prevent them from happening in the first place! Available for dogs and cats, new insecticides and insect growth regulators in easy-to-use topical or oral forms not only eliminate any existing fleas, but also work long term to prevent any future infestations. Ask your veterinarian about which product is best for your dog or cat.

3.     Housing and Traveling with your Pets:  Soaring temperatures are no more comfortable for dogs and cats than they are for people. Heat prostration is a common cause of summer illness that can, and does, kill many of our beloved pets. Be sure to provide plenty of shade and clean cool water if your pet is outside. A sturdy shelter is also need so they may have an area to escape summer storms. Never leave a pet in a vehicle that is in the sun with the windows partially or completely rolled up. Temperatures can soar rapidly to more than 100 F and can cause death in sometimes as little as 10 minutes. If you think you may need to leave your pet in the car for a period of time, do both of you a favor and leave them at home!!!!Call ahead when traveling with your pet to see if they will be welcome at any hotels or homes where you intend to stay. Traveling outside the country often requires the pet be quarantined for a specific period of time so be sure to check with the country to which you will be traveling. Remember sometimes the best solution to everyone is check into boarding or in home pet sitting care.

4.     Pesticides and Lawn care products: Many pesticides are toxic to pets. Be sure to store all containers in a safe and secure place. After treating lawns and outside areas do not let pets on these areas until the dangers have passed. Also some types of summertime plants are toxic to pets (among them hydrangea, wisteria, delphinium, foxglove, privet hedge and monkshood) so do your best to keep your pets from “dining out” on these plants.

Spay and Neuter: You need to spay or neuter your dogs and cats to prevent unwanted litters of puppies and kittens.