Healthy Tips for Your Dog This Spring and Summer
As we enter the spring and summer months, you and your pet will likely be spending more time in nature. Along with the changing weather, it is important to make sure your pet is properly protected from health issues stemming from the change in season. We have listed a few of the most prevalent issues for pets and the steps you can take to keep your pet safe.
Heartworm Protection
Heartworm disease is a serious condition for pet owners to be aware of. Heartworms can cause a host of issues such as lung disease and heart failure. While heartworms are much more prevalent in dogs, cats can also contract the disease. Inside a dog, a heartwormâs lifespan can be up to 7 years.
While the heartworm disease is not directly contagious from one dog to another, it is spread through mosquito bites. As the mosquito population increases in summer, it is especially important to protect your pets, however, prevention should still be administered throughout the year. Heartworm preventatives come in topical and injectable medications as well as chewable pills. Talk with your veterinarian to discuss the best heartworm protection options for your pets!
Dehydration
While dehydration can affect your pet at any time of year, the warmer temperatures of spring and summer can increase the risk. Dogs naturally lose water through normal functions such as breathing, urinating, and panting. If your petâs fluid intake is less than the amount theyâre losing, dehydration can occur. Signs of dehydration include loss of skin elasticity, dry nose, and loss of appetite.
To prevent dehydration, you should always provide your pet with access to ample amounts of clean drinking water. Remember that if your dog is spending extended periods of time outdoors, exercising, or in the hot weather, they will need additional water to supplement their normal diet and stay hydrated.
In general, dogs require a minimum of one ounce of water per day for each pound of body weight. For personalized suggestions on water intake for your pet, be sure to ask your veterinarian.
Flea and Tick Prevention
Fleas and ticks are common concerns for pet owners year-round. However, as we move into the warmer months, these pests become a more prevalent issue. The saliva from fleas can cause issues for your dog such as infection, itching, and anemia. Tick bites can be even more dangerous, leading to abscesses and paralysis. Parasites, such as fleas and ticks, can also spread Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and tapeworms.
There are many options for tick and flea prevention, usually provided in oral or topical forms. If your pet has a sensitive stomach, ask your vet about a topical treatment option. Alternatively, if your dog is frequently around other animals or small children, your veterinarian may suggest a chewable pill.
With proper preventatives, you and your pet should be able to enjoy the warmer months safely. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian about the best options to keep your pet protected this summer!
Sources:
https://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-owner-resources/heartworm-prevention-for-dogs
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/flea-and-tick-prevention-and-treatment-dogs
