Pets

Pet Safety Tips
By Lauren M. Locke, D.V.M.

The longer days and warmer weather of the summer months allows for renewed outdoor activities for you and your pets.  More playtime in parks, more family trips (including camping and hiking), and more time in the sun and heat, all require advance planning in order to help to keep these activities pleasant and without some of the common mishaps.

Fleas and ticks are common throughout the year, but appear especially prevalent during the warmer summer months. Many preventatives are available and should be used as these parasites transmit diseases and worms. Some products are more effective than others, and your veterinarian can help you determine which is best

Gastrointestinal parasites are transmitted in high pet traffic areas, by the fecal-oral route. For example, a dog walking through an infected area and then licking its paws is a possible means of transference. Fecal exams should be run by your veterinarian to make sure your pet has not contracted any parasites.

Dog parks are particularly popular during the summer months. Multiple dogs often run together off-leash, and while this is traditionally very exciting for the dogs, many of them will exert their dominant status and initiate or participate in potentially aggressive behavior. Although innocent “play” may have started the contact, it can escalate into a fight resulting in bite wounds or broken bones. 

Dogs are prone to picking up foxtails when running through long grass or fields. These plant portions are like thorns that migrate through the skin, ears, nose and mouth. If your dog is shaking his head or develops a lump between his toes (common sites), see your veterinarian.

Cats and dogs (especially white or light coated animals) that spend significant time in the sun, have the potential to develop squamous cell carcinoma and other sun related tumors. Placing sun screen on ears, bellies, and pink noses is helpful in preventing sunburn.

Traveling with your pet can either be a fun experience, or an exasperating problem. Be aware that diseases that are not prevalent in Ventura County may be contracted by a pet visiting another area of the country. Discuss with your veterinarian precautions you can take ahead of time when traveling with your pet. When flying, contact the individual airline weeks in advance to confirm rules and regulations regarding flying your pet. A health certificate is required to fly an animal or cross international or Hawaiian borders. For foreign or Hawaiian travel, contact the destination site months in advance as many foreign countries require blood tests and specific vaccination schedules beginning six months in advance or more. For animals that must travel in cargo, it is often recommended to avoid sedation due to the inability to monitor them and potential complications.  If traveling in an automobile, be aware of elevated car temperatures and overall time spent in the sun. If you absolutely must leave your pet in the parked car, for a VERY BRIEF period of time, then please remember to park in the shade and crack windows.  Animals are prone to heat stroke and dehydration. Remember, they wear a warm coat all year.

Animals often travel better in crates. They usually feel more protected and secure, despite any struggle to initially get them in the carrier. Hard carriers will also protect them from flying or falling objects, if there is an accident. It is best to have only one animal in each carrier (required for plane travel). Remember to pack a leash, collar with tags and phone number, water bowl, pet food, a favorite blanket or toy, litter and box if needed, and a can opener for canned food.

Be sure to leash pets for walks at rest stops. Even dogs that won’t run off at home, may get nervous at unfamiliar places. A microchip implantation is ideal, as it cannot be removed and will link your pet to you when scanned.

Summer holidays, such as July 4th, Memorial Day and Labor Day are typically very busy around households. Fireworks (loud noise phobias) and human food consumption are two common aggravations to the health of animals. Keep your pet safe by preventing exposure to human food, edible objects, and confining them inside to prevent escape or fear bolting. Sedatives may be helpful for those animals extremely stressed during fireworks or loud noises.