Common Summer Parasites and Ailments

Having pets is a lot like having children. You should always check in on their well-being and make sure they are healthy, especially in the peak of summer when common summer parasites and ailments prevail. Since pets can’t communicate with you via a common language, they often find other, more subtle ways of showing pain or discomfort.

Unfortunately, Summer time presents its own unique challenges, ailments and parasites that all pet parents should be on the look out for.

Parasites:

Ticks — Can cause Lyme disease. The first symptom is usually lameness because it causes inflammation in the joints, followed by loss of appetite and lethargy. If left untreated, it can lead to inflammation of the kidneys, which can lead to more serious ailments.

Fleas — Aside from being frustrating and annoying to get bitten by fleas, these creatures can cause an infectious and/or allergic reactions in your pet.

Heartworm — Transmitted by parasites through the cardiovascular system.

Other Ailments:

Heat Stroke — Overheating on a warm day is not uncommon, but if you don’t address it right away, it can have a devastating effect on your pet’s organs and even result in death. It’s important to keep your pet cool during warm Summer days.

Burns — Since most of us wear shoes when walking outside, we don’t realize just how warm the pavement can get on a hot summer day. The paws are a very sensitive part of your pet’s body and burns can lead to blisters, infections and more.

Sunburn — Very short haired or hairless pets often need to have sunscreen applied on warm sunny days to prevent sunburn, just like humans.

Dehydration — Just the heat alone can overwhelm your pet and lead to serious side effects

How to Prevent Summer Related Diseases:

• Keep food and water bowls clean by rinsing them every day
• Clean up all animal feces in the yard as they carry parasites
• Provide shade using a beach umbrella or some other kind of shelter
• Make sure there’s plenty of fresh, clean drinking water for your pet
• Keep your pet’s hair short and clean with frequent haircuts and baths
• Check your pet for ticks, fleas and other infestations often.
• Don’t leave your pet in a locked car or any other enclosed space that will get warm quickly
• Have flea powder and medicated shampoo on hand to eliminate the problem as soon as it arises
• Keep a watchful eye on your pet and don’t hesitate to take him or her to the vet if you notice a change in behavior
• Stay on track with all vaccinations to prevent other diseases

In the end, prevention is always the best method of care for any ailment or parasite to ensure your pet’s health and wellness. Visit our Providers Page to see a list of pet insurance plans and companies that offer comprehensive veterinary coverage in the event that your pet gets sick this summer.

After all, if you have the choice to spend your money on vet bills or a nice vacation, even your pet would rather go on that vacation!