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 Dog Tails Newsletter
Below you will find information regarding various seasonal issues we'd like you to know about. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Fleas and Ticks
Our local climate is a welcome environment for both fleas and ticks. Fleas tend to be a problem from may through November, although indoor infestations can be a year-round struggle for some families. Ticks have become prevalent for ten or more months out of the year, especially in low-lying marsh areas and areas with tall grass and heavy woods. We have many species of tick on Cape Ann, most notably the deer tick. It is important for both pet and human health that you maintain proper flea and tick protection for all your pets. There are safe, effective ways to keep those unwelcome critters at bay, so please call us with any questions. Please click here for more information about flea and tick prevention.
Ear Infections
We live in a community where dogs have ample access to both fresh and salt water. When water gets down the ear canals it helps create an environment where yeast and bacteria like to grow. Drying out your dog's ears after a swim can significantly help minimize the occurrence of ear infections (aka otitis externa). Also, using a simple ear cleanser in your dog's ears after they go swimming is a great preventative measure. Head shaking and/or scratching at the head is an indication that your dog may have an ear infection.
Intestinal Parasites
Dogs can become infected with intestinal parasites by various means. Eating dirt, leaves and feces from other animals commonly results in parasite infection. Also, dogs easily contract tapeworms from fleas. Although outdoor dogs are most highly exposed to parasites, dogs that live primarily indoors get parasites as well. Please remember to bring a fecal sample to all yearly wellness exams; you'd be unpleasantly surprised at how many times we stumble across intestinal parasites in otherwise healthy pets!
Poisonous Plants
Some dogs enjoy chewing or eating flowers and plants. Although there are many plant species that are safe, dogs often have access to poisonous plants. Because there is no general rule regarding what part of a plant is poisonous, knowing if your dog will get sick can be confusing. Many toxic plants cause immediate vomiting and loss of appetite, but some cause no symptoms until after severe damage is done. If you have any reason to suspect that your dog was exposed to a poisonous plant, please call us right away. Also, the Animal Poison Control Center publishes a list of toxic and nontoxic plants for your reference.
Other Seasonal Hazards
Keep antifreeze away from your pets. Any antifreeze that contains ethylene glycol is fatal if ingested. Some forms of antifreeze (those that are made from propylene glycol) are considered safe for pets. However, even propylene glycol can make your pet sick if too much is ingested. Call immediately if you think your pet has ingested antifreeze.
Obesity in Dogs
The unfortunate statistic is that close to 50% of all dogs in the United States are overweight and that nearly one-third of those dogs are considered to be obese. There are many reasons (including undiagnosed medical conditions) why a dog can weigh more than it should, and there are even more reasons why weight loss in dogs can significantly improve quality of life. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight please click here to learn more about our Free Weight Clinic. We have developed a no-cost coaching service to help your dog lose those unhealthy pounds.
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