Caring for your pets this summer

We all love the summer sun and want to enjoy it, our pets included. Here's how you can keep your pets safe, comfortable and enjoy the summer together.

1. Never leave your dog in a car
2. Do not exercise your dogs in the heat of the day
3. Plan walks at cooler times of the day
4. Have plenty of water available
5. Ensure plenty of shade available
6. Keep the dogs out of direct sunlight
7. Ensure white dogs have suncream applied

Every season poses different threats and dangers and summer is no different. The first hazard is parasites . In summer parasites can be found in their highest numbers. Ticks, fleas and worms are rife throughout the summer months and can cause a real problem for you and your pet.

There are many ways to protect your pets from parasites, we recommend preventative health care.

At Jurassic vets and run FREE PARASITE CHECKS with our vets which allows us to prescribe prescription only medication. Our nurses are also available to discuss the options of preventative parasite treatments, and find a combination which suits you and your pet.

It is also important to check yourselves for ticks, particularly around your ankles, legs and even abdomen. We can sell you a tick remover if you want to be prepared. It is important to be sure that the entire tick is removed, including head. So pop in and see us if you'd like some guidance.

Living in Devon we are lucky to have an abundance of wildlife just on our door step. However they also bring a risk to our pets.

Adders can be found all over the UK, in particular in long grasses. Dogs love exploring and tend to wade through the long grass head first. They are therefore more likely to get bitten on their head, face, neck or front legs. This can cause swelling, breathing difficulties and can potentially be life threatening.

IF YOU'RE CONCERNED ABOUT ADDERS PLEASE GIVE US A CALL ON 01395 208620 OR POP IN FOR A CHAT.

You could also visit our website for 'Adder advice' in the news section.

Bees, wasps and biting insects are also in abundance at this time of year. This increases the chances of your dog or cat being bitten or stung whilst out and about. If this is the case you may notice some localised swelling or irritation in that area. Some animals will have an anaphlyactic reaction.

Signs include:

Dogs can also suffer from heat stroke, just like us. Heat stroke can develop quickly when exposed to high temperatures, humidity and poor ventilation.

Worryingly heat stroke can be fatal in as little as 15 minutes! If you are concerned, contact us immediately.

Who's more at risk?

1. Puppies
2. Elderly dogs
3. Dogs with a thick, long coat
4. Dogs with heart or respiratory issues
5. Breeds with narrow or flat faces