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Croton Animal Hospital Presents: The Top 10 Summer Threats to Your Pets

By June 7th, 2010No Comments

NEVER leave your pet alone in a parked car! The temperature can reach 120° in minutes, even with the windows slightly open, and can quickly cause brain damage or death. If you suspect heat stroke, move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water to the body. Urge him to drink, but don’t force it. Take him to the veterinarian immediately.

HAVE A HEART Heartworm disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal in dogs and cats. Prevention is the best defense – and is easier and safer than ever. Check with your vet for the best prevention for your pet.

FLEAS Don’t bring me home Do not use over-thecounter flea and tick products. They don’t work well and may contain ingredients that could harm both pets and people. Your veterinarian can prescribe treatments that are safe, effective and easy to administer.

POISONING If your pet has eaten a toxic substance or exhibits symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions and fever, call your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting. And always store hazardous products in a safe place.

H2O IS COOL Make sure that clean, cold water is always available for your pet. Rinse bowls and change water often.

BLOCK THAT SUN It may be surprising to learn that pets with light-colored skin and hair can get sunburned. In fact, extensive time in the sun can even result in skin cancer. If you are going to be in a situation where your pet will be spending a long time outside on a hot, sunny day, talk to your veterinarian about using specially developed sun block for pets on unprotected areas like the nose and ears.

IT’S A DOG EAT DOG WORLD Dog bites increase in summer months. Learn how to prevent dog bites. Spaying or neutering reduces the urge to bite and provides other health benefits. If your pet is bitten by another animal, approach him carefully – he may retaliate.

COLLAR MY WORLD It’s easy to let your pet run loose on a lovely summer’s day. It may not be so easy to get him back. Be sure he’s wearing a collar and ID tag. Also consider a microchip ID.

AN INSIDE TIP Keep cats indoors. In addition to all the hazards posed by the “great” outdoors, housecats are simply not accustomed to the freedom. Their chances of becoming ill or injured are greatly intensified. Rise & Shine When it’s hot and humid, exercise your pet in the early morning or evening, when it’s cooler. Keep walks to a minimum, and be extra cautious with older and overweight animals. Hot pavement can burn a dog’s pads, and walking outdoors during the hottest time of the day can lead to heat stress.

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