HOT DOG!

As the weather heats up there a few steps you should take to make sure your furry friend stays cool as a cucumber.

Never leave your dog unattended in a car. While rolling down the windows might seem like a adequate gesture to keeping temperatures regulated, this is not the case! Leave Fido at home with the fans on if you're going to be running errands. On hot, sunny days take it easy. Limit rough play and long walks. Take frequent breaks to relax in the shade. Water, water, water! Make sure your pup stays hydrated! Hot days lead to quick evaporation, so make sure that water dishes are filled to the brim.

The normal temperature of a dog is between 100-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. A dog suffering from heat stroke may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Rapid panting
• Bright red tongue
• Red or pale gums
• Thick, sticky saliva
• Depression
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Vomiting - sometimes with blood
• Diarrhea

If you dog becomes overheated you may cool him off by rinsing them under a stream of cool or lukewarm water. Do not use cold water, as it will actually be counterproductive. Even if your dog seems to be rebounding, bring him to your veterinarian as soon as possible to be examined. Following heat stroke your dog may be dehydrated or have other complications, such as shock, respiratory distress, kidney failure, heart abnormalities. Blood samples may be drawn to monitor clotting since clotting complications are a common effect of heat stroke.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about your four-legged friends, don't be a stranger! Give us a call, we're here for you.

Parasite Protection

It's finally springtime in Chicago! Along with the longer days, warmer weather, beautiful flowers and buzzing bees comes another few things: fleas and ticks. As soon as the dandelions start poking their heads up from the ground you should begin protecting your pooch and outdoor kitty against these pests.

Why worry about fleas and ticks?

Fleas: Fleas cause itching, skin irritation, and general discomfort for pets and their owners. They are vectors for disease and other parasites, like tapeworms. For all these reasons, it's highly recommended you protect your pet (and in turn, yourself) from these little buggers. Some popular treatments are Frontline, Advantix, and Revolution. Natural deterrents are also available.

Ticks: Ticks are notorious for harboring Lyme Disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Ticks may cause local irritation when they lodge under the skin. Infection may also occur if a tick is only partially removed after lodging. Some popular treatments include Frontline, Advantix, and Preventicks. Natural deterrents are also available.

What about mosquitoes?


Mosquitoes and Heartworm: Mosquitoes are vectors for disease and parasites. One of the most common and most detrimental mosquito-transmitted parasite is heartworm. While heartworm is treatable, prevention is vital to maintaining the health of your animal. A quick Google image search for "heartworm" will be enough to convince you that prevention is the way to go. Since animals do not exhibit symptoms of heartworm infection until the parasite is well-established, a quick annual blood screening is critical to wellbeing. Popular preventatives include Heartgard, Interceptor, Revolution, and Advantage. Most heartworm preventative also prevent against intenstinal parasites, as well.



Here are a few fantastic resources for parasite protection elucidation:
http://www.petsandparasites.org/
http://www.dogsandticks.com/












There are many products available to help keep your pals healthy and comfortable; we're here to help you make an informed decision. So give us a call or stop on in and let's talk ticks and more.