Dogs
& FireworksNEWS
Summer Sun & Holidays
As summer approaches we think of holidays and sun. Both are a lot of fun but need a little thought and preparation. Just as we should slip, slop and slap to prevent skin cancer so our pets need us to be aware and prepare them for the added risks of summer.
The Heat – Water and Shade.
Hot summer days pose a threat by increasing the risk of dehydration and heat stroke. Adequate cool water and shade are needed for out pets just as much as for our children. A good-sized waterbowl, or two, of a type which cannot be tipped over and which is always in the shade, is essential. Heatstroke can occur rapidly where pets are in hot environments. Even 10 minutes in a car left in the sun can be fatal as cars can heat up very very quickly. A hot shadeless yard can be equally fatal.
Holidays
When we go on holidays we can either take our pet with us, leave it at home or place it in a cattery or kennels. The choice is ours, not our pets. If travelling what I said of heat, cars and dehydration above applies. A moving car may not get hot but our pets, as we, can get dehydrated. Regular comfort stops are wise. If left at home there must be a responsible carer who at least calls daily, preferably twice a day. If going to boarding kennels or cattery preparation should include adequate vaccination especially against cat flu and canine cough. If a pet has not been vaccinated against these then contact your veterinarian at least 6 weeks before to allow a full course to be given. In my opinion a cattery or kennels that does not insist on this protection is best avoided.
Respiratory Disease:
With the coming of winter we may expect an increase in respiratory disease in both dogs and cats. Two of the most common and serious of the Cat Flu diseases can be prevented by routine vaccination with annual boosters as can the two Canine Cough diseases. Dogs and cats going into kennels and Catteries definitely should be vaccinated. Please contact us at least six weeks before entry.
Feline Leucemia Vaccine:
The cancer of cats Lymphosarcoma is commonly caused by a persistent infection with the Feline Leucemia Virus. This is a slow disease as it is usually years between picking up the virus and disease occurring. A vaccine is now available. For best results it should be used from an early age with annual boosting.
Food Glorious Food
Parasites on Dogs and Cats: Fleas
While collars on cats usually pose no problems and are valuable to identify the owner when they are lost three cases in the last 2 weeks show that they must be carefully watched.
ALTERNATELY you may have a microchip implanted by us or your veterinarian.
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