June 25, 2022 Issue, Page 10 of 14

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10 June 25, 2022 Cutest , Big Or Small le Your Det The Cutest? ie Keep Pets Safe All Summer Long 4 tips to overcome warm weather hazards FAMILY FEATURES Increased humidity ummer means extra time outdoors. Sunny combined with warmer months provide a perfect opportunity temperatures intensifies the for bonding with pets, but higher temp- risk ofheat stroke, especially eratures, seasonal plants and pests and during the first few warm additional travel can pose higher risks for days as pets transition to complications. outdoor activity. If your To help keep dogs, cats and other pets safe pet exhibits any symptoms during summer adventures, consider these tips ofheatstroke — elevated from the experts at VCA Animal Hospitals, breathing rates, dry or which has more than 1,000 locations across North sticky gums, lethargy, America that cared for more than 4.5 million pets disorientation, abnormal last year. gum color, bruised gums or seizures — pour cool Beat the Heat water over your pet’s head, ‘Dogs and cats cannot control their body stomach and feet or apply temperature by sweating as humans do. They cool, wet cloths, ensure have a small number of sweat glands located continuous airflow and see a in their footpads and primarily regulate their veterinarian immediately. temperature by panting, Vigorous exercise, leaving a pet ina vehicle with poor ventilation Keep Ticks at Bay —even if the windows are down — or being left As pets spend more time outside without shade and water on hot days can outdoors in the summer, lead to heatstroke, or hyperthermia. they're often exposed to pests like ticks. Ticks can transmit PPhotos courtesy of Gtty Images serious diseases to both dogs and cats. According to the used for your pet’s size. Never use dog flea and Manage Allergies Companion Animal Parasite Council, as many tick products on cats. Many of the same allergens that affect humans as | in 20 dogs tested positive for tick-borne impact pets. Atopy, also known as inhalant diseases in 2021. Ticks climb onto pets from Travel Safely allergy, is a common cause of skin problems blades of grass or fall from overhanging trees If you plan to travel with your pet, pack the in dogs and cats. Affected animals often and foliage. Ifa tick finds its way onto your pet, necessities for your animal. Your pet’s luggage have a history of chronic or recurrent itching use tweezers or disposable gloves to grasp the should include food, water bowls, treats, a leash and tend to have a history ofrepeated skin tick as close to the skin as possible then pull and collar, toys, medications and printed copies or ear infections. Itchy pets tend to scratch straight out with steady, even pressure until the of medical records, including vaccination themselves, lick their feet and rub on furniture tick releases. history. Check with your veterinarian to or carpet. Atopy can also cause cats to groom If you find a tick, carefully inspect all areas determine if a health certificate is needed for excessively and develop bald or crusty spots of skin, including behind the ears and between travel. Also ensure your pet is comfortable on their skin. the toes, for additional ticks. After removing the with his or her crate or carrier before flying or Some allergies may also affect the respiratory tick, thoroughly clean the bite area with soap and embarking on a long road trip. or digestive systems or the eyes. If your pet is water and wash your hands. Save the tick in a Knowing where to take your pet in case of displaying signs of allergies, your veterinarian resealable plastic bag to show your veterinarian an emergency while away from home is also can recommend appropriate testing and treatment and take note of the time and place the bite essential. Look up emergency veterinary clinics to reduce symptoms. occurred and any other details that may aid your near your destination before departing or ask if veterinarian should an illness occur. Follow your your vet offers virtual care options. For example, Visit veahospitals.com to find more ways to veterinarian’s advice about tick preventative through the myVCA app, you can access 24/7 live keep pets safe throughout the summer and book measures, and make sure the product is safe to be chat with licensed veterinary professionals. an appointment. = Atthe Elk City Animal BINTZ & ELLIS ysic & SMOOTHIE EIKSUPPLY cemnee www.elksupply.com