The hot summer months bring health issues we should be aware of - here are a few:

KNOW THESE THREATS TO YOUR DOG

• LYME DISEASE - A tick-borne bacterial disease that can cause lameness, kidney damage and death in dogs.
• EHRLICHIOSIS -  Also spread by ticks, ehrlichiosis can cause chronic weight loss, lameness, bleeding disorders,seizures and neurologic problems in dogs.
• LEPTOSPIROSIS - The No. 1 cause of acute renal failure in dogs. "lepto" is a deadly bacterial disease spread by contact with urine from wildlife,other pets and even livestock. Lepto can be transmitted from dogs to people.
• RABIES - A fatal viral disease transmitted by saliva, typically through bite wounds, rabies is a threat to both people and pets.
• HEARTWORM DISEASE - A preventable, mosquito-borne disease in dogs and cats that eventually affects multiple organs and causes death if untreated.
  

          TAKE CONTROL OF TICKS AND FLEAS

• Ticks and fleas are extremely common, blood-sucking parasites that become active in warmer weather. With the hot summer months upon us these issues should be addressed.
• Ticks and fleas can carry several diseases that affect pets and people.  It is possible for a person or pet to be infected with more that one disease at a time:
• Tick-borne diseases include: Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis, Hepatozoonosis.
• Flea bites can cause severe skin irritation and itching, especially for pets and people with allergies. Scratching can cause secondary bacterial infections. Tapeworm infection and in rare cases, anemia may also occur.

              PROTECT YOUR PET AND YOURSELF

• BRUSH your dog after each outing.
• CONTACT your veterinarian and have them recommend the right product to address these issues for your pet. They know your pet's history and surroundings and can better recommend the right treatment.
• ASK your veterinarian how to protect your dog for Lyme disease.
• Keep tall brush and grass mowed where your dog or childred will play.
• CHECK your dog for Ticks daily.
• To remove a tick use tweezers and apply antiseptic to the affected area.
• Wash your dog's bedding regularly to remove flea eggs and larvae.
• If you have questions, contact your veterinarian-they are the best source of information on old and new ways to treat and prevent problems for your dog and you.

         KEEP YOUR DOG SAFE

• Remember with the summer months comes the Fourth of July Fireworks, Thunderstorms, and other loud noises. Protect your dog from being frightened by creating a safe place, distract him or her with soothing music or toys and let them know you are not concerned about the noise. Our pets will often react as a result of our emotions or reactions.

        KEEP YOUR DOG COOL!

• As the temperature rises your dog will need a cool retreat. If you are tempted to take them in your vehicle DO NOT LEAVE THEM IN A CLOSED CAR. It is often better to leave your dog at home.