🐾 Watch Out for Warm-Weather Pests
Fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid climates—and Baltimore certainly delivers on both in the summer months. These pests aren’t just itchy nuisances; they can also carry diseases like Lyme disease, which is transmitted through infected tick bites or Heartworm disease which is transmitted through infected mosquitoes. Aside from being annoying, they can be deadly! Heartworm disease affects the heart and lungs and can be life-threatening if left untreated. The cost to treat is also far more than the cost to prevent, which is why we believe that prevention is always the best medicine.
What can you do?
- Stick with year-round parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms. We offer Simparica Trio, Revolution and Credelio right in our office, but have a wide array of other options to fit every lifestyle and budget in our convenient online pharmacy.
- Check your pet after outdoor play, especially if you’ve been walking through grassy or wooded areas.
- Ask us about the best vaccines and preventatives for your pet’s lifestyle.
- Secure pet insurance early in your pet’s life. Should your pet develop any of these conditions before purchasing insurance, they will not fall under the umbrella of care and could be costly to treat.
☀️ Keep Cool & Stay Hydrated
Baltimore summers can be hot and humid, which means your pet can be at risk for heatstroke or burns to the paw pads, especially on long walks or during outdoor play.
Tips to keep your pet cool:
- Walk your dog during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
- Always provide fresh, cool water and shade if your pet is outside.
- Avoid hot pavement—if it’s too hot for your bare hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws!
- Consider cooling mats or fans, especially for brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.
Watch for signs of overheating, like excessive panting, drooling, weakness, or vomiting. If you notice any of these, move your pet to a cool area and contact your vet immediately.
🚶🏻➡️Walk Safely
Walking safely in the city requires staying alert and aware of your surroundings. Always use designated crosswalks and wait for pedestrian signals before crossing streets. Avoid distractions like texting or wearing headphones at high volume, especially near intersections or driveways. Make yourself & your pet visible.
🐶 Planning a Summer Getaway? Let’s Talk Boarding!
If you’re heading out of town this summer, it’s a great time to plan ahead for your pet’s care. There are several reputable pet boarding facilities in the Baltimore area, and many fill up quickly during the travel season. We are fans of Baltimore Bark House!
Before boarding:
- Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccines—especially Bordetella (kennel cough) and CIV (Canine Influenza) which is required at most facilities.
- Pack familiar items like their favorite toy or blanket to help them feel more at home.
- If your pet has any medical needs, make sure the boarding staff is fully informed and prepared.
Not sure where to start? We’re happy to help with recommendations for trusted local boarding options to provide the care your pet needs while you’re away.
Let’s Make It a Safe, Sunny Season!
Whether it’s questions about your pet’s current preventatives, getting ready for summer travel, or just stopping in for a refill of anxiety medications for those fearful of fireworks—we’re here for you. Give us a call at 667-354-1143 or stop by to see us today.
Wishing you and your pet a happy, healthy summer!