Summertime brings BBQs, fun in the sun, and swimming - good times that are tarnished only by insects, heatstroke, sunburn, skin problems and water hazards, to name the most common summer-related dangers that face dogs and cats.

Itchy and scratchy

When the weather turns warm, fleas hatch and animals get itchy.  Many animals are allergic to fleas, and all it takes is one flea for them to bite and scratch themselves raw.
If your pet shows signs of skin irritation please call us on 9522 7088 as there are several treatments availavble for allergies.
We also stock and recommend Advantix for the prevention of flee and tick infestation.

Ticks

Although ticks are around all year round, their peak period is spring and summer.Warning signs include loss of appetite, lethargy, altered bark or meow, coughing, retching, gagging or vomiting, groaning or grunting, altered breathing, and wobbliness or weakness in the limbs.
If your pet shows any of these symptoms call us on 9522 7088 immediately.

Heatstroke

Heat and humidity affect pets as well, especially those that are brachycephalic, or flat-faced, such as Pugs, Pekingese and Persians, or those with heavy coats.  It is important to be able to identify the symptoms of heat stress. Check the animal for signs of heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, restlessness, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, or unconsciousness.
If the animal shows symptoms of heatstroke, move them into a cool area, apply ice packs or cold towels to hear neck and chest, give them a drink of cold water and take them immediately to the vet.

Doggie Paddle

Does your dog love swimming in the pool? Be sure they know how to get out. Take your dog into the pool and show them how to find the stairs and climb out.  Then put them into the pool and see if they can get out on their own.

Sunscreen

Dogs and cats are susceptible to sunburn, especially if they have thin or light-colored coats, and pets that get sunburned are more likely to develop skin cancer.The areas most prone to sunburn are the nose, face and ear tips - so cover them with sunscreen.

Christmas Dinner

• AVOCADO is toxic to cats, dogs and especially birds. CHOCOLATE contains theobromine and can lead to death in cats and dogs if not treated early.
• ARTIFICIAL SWEETNER can lead to seizures, vomiting and weakness. GRAPES & RAISINS can cause kidney failure, especially in dogs.
• ONIONS, GARLIC, LEEKS & CHIVES can cause a type of anemia in cats.
• MACADAMIA NUTS can cause vomiting and weakness in dogs.
• FATTY OR SWEET FOODS can cause severe digestive upsets and life-threatening pancreatitis.

If your pet eats any of these items and appears at all unwell seek immediate veterinary advice.

Now that you’re prepared, enjoy the dog (and cat) days of summer.