News and Press

SUMMERTIME PET CARE TIPS

Heat Stress or Heat Stroke can be dangerous and even fatal if not acted on immediately. The best cure is prevention! Please read the following information and do not hesitate to call our office and speak to one of our doctors with any other questions you may have.

Any pet can suffer from heat stress, but some are more susceptible:

·        The very young or the very old pets

·        Short-nosed breeds of dogs and cats

·        Overweight animals

·        Pets with cardiovascular or respiratory problems

·        Heavy coated breeds of cats and dogs

How can you help prevent heat stress?

·        Provide plenty of fresh water at all times

·        If outside be sure there is plenty of shaded areas and NEVER leave your pet unsupervised for long periods of time, bring inside as soon as you can

·        Avoid exercise during hot days

·        Avoid walking on hot pavement, pets can burn their paws

·        Keep your pet well groomed, mats and tangles may trap too much heat

·        NEVER, NEVER leave you pet in a car!

Signs of Heat Stress

·        Panting

·        Staring

·        Anxious expression

·        Refusal to obey commands

·        High fever

·        Rapid heartbeat

·        Vomiting

·        Collapse

Knowing the signs of heat stress is important but this is a medical emergency! If you suspect your pet is having heat stress you must act quickly. Decrease your pet’s body temperature by applying towels soaked with cool water to areas of the body with the least hair, i.e. abdomen, head and neck. Then call and transport your pet the veterinarian immediately! Heat stress can be fatal!

BITES AND STINGS

Pets can be curious with anything that makes noise or flies around. Bites and stings can cause swelling, soreness and sometimes allergic reactions. Call your veterinarian for advice immediately when you think your pet has been bitten.

VACATIONING         

Family vacations need to take into consideration the family pet! You have many options as to either take them with you, leave them in a boarding kennel or using a pet sitter. Which ever you choose keeping your pet safe is vital.

If bringing your pet with you, here are some tips:

·        Call ahead and make sure wherever you are staying will accept and welcome your size pet

·        Vaccinations must be current! Ask your veterinarian for a travel health certificate or a summary of vaccines

·        Be sure your pet has identification on him at all times with an emergency phone number. Keeping a collar on with a current rabies tag and microchipping your pet will help him find his way home in case he gets lost.

·        Keep a current photo of you pet in a safe place

·        Keep you pet on a leash at all times

·        Bring his usual food and water with you. Don’t forget any medications!

·        Check with local veterinarians about local hazards, i.e. poisonous plants, toads, Lyme’s disease, snakes, etc.

Leaving your pet at a boarding facility:

·        Boarding facilities will ensure you pet will stay safe while you’re away

·        Call early to make reservations

·        Make a list of medications

·        Your pet must be current on vaccines

The Doctors and staff at Royal Palm Veterinary Hospital take pride in providing a quality and compassionate boarding experience for your pet.

Your pet will stay in a modern, safe and temperature controlled environment. Our well trained staff are devoted to the health and well-being or your much-valued family member and will offer your pet...   “HOME AWAY FROM HOME”  ( Worry Free)

Return to our home page and go to Boarding Info to submit a boarding reservation

Using a Pet Sitter:

·        Meet with the sitter in their home, if that is where your pet will be boarding to make sure that you and your pet like the person

·        Make arrangements early so you can be sure you get first choice

·        Your pet must be current on vaccines

·        Be sure all medication dosages are clear and easy to understand

·        Leave instructions on feeding, play time and any behaviors that your pet may have that are unique

·        Have identification on you pet

·        Leave information on your veterinarian, name, phone number, address and permission to treat your pet in your absence.

·        Leave a number on where you can be reached in case of an emergency