Summer Tips for your Pet

Provide plenty of water and keep it in a shaded area.  Some pets like to have ice cubes in their water bowls.



Some dogs enjoy playing in a kiddy pool or in a water hose.



Avoid strenuous activities in the middle of the day.  Walk your dog in the early morning or late evening to avoid the heat.



Provide plenty of shaded areas for them to cool off.   If you have an outdoor bunny hutch make sure it is in a shaded area especially in the mid-day and afternoon hours.



Avoid outdoor activities in crowded areas



Horses with a lot of white on their face may need sunscreen or a mask to keep them form getting sunburned.



Never leave a pet in a closed vehicle.  Temperatures can reach over 100 degrees in a few minutes.



Signs of overheating included excessive panting, lethargy, dizziness, and vomiting.  If you think your pet

is overheated you can place a cool damp towel on their neck, head and chest.  Call your Veterinarian.



For more information visit www.akc.org or www.humanesociety.org.

Orphaned Wildlife

By: Tammy Washburn, LVT

Spring seems to have finally arrived here in Kentucky. This is the time of year that flowers bloom and foals are beginning to play in the fields.  This is also the time of ear when most wildlife have their young.

Orphans require special care and the proper milk and foods so that it can recover and be released back into the wild.  Some wild animals can transfer diseases and parasites to people and our pets so it is important to use proper hygiene when handling theses animals.

If you find an orphaned or injured wild animal it is important to contact and get it to the proper trained person.   In the state of Kentucky it is illegal to raise a wild animal.  We have several licensed wildlife rehabbers here in central Kentucky who are trained to care for these animals .

For more information on what to do if you find an injured or orphaned wild animal go to www.kywildlife.org.

Sarcoptic Mange in Dogs

By:  Tammy Washburn

Sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious mange to both dogs and humans.  The mites burrow deep into the skin causing hair loss and itching.  These mites can be hard to see on a skin scraping.  If the mites aren't seen and the Vet suspects sarcastic mange they will probably go ahead and treat your pet. If your pet is positive for sarcastic mange it is recommended to clean all the pets bedding thoroughly or throw it out. Also be sure to wash your hands after handling or petting your dog.

Demodectic Mange in Dogs

Demodectic Mange in Dogs, by Tammy Washburn LVT



There are two types of mange mites in dogs, Demodectic and Sarcoptic mange. Demodectic mange, as know as Demodex is a non-contagious mite.



The Demodex mite lives in the hair follicles and it is normal for it to occur in small numbers.  A rapid increase in demodex mites occurs in immature immune systems.  Clinical signs include hair loss primarily around the face, but can occur anywhere on the body. The skin is often red and irritated looking.  Your Vet can do  skin scrapping to diagnose mites and will prescribe proper medication for your pet.

SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE

Heat stroke can be deadly and can happen anywhere it's warm and your pet can't find a place to cool off! Here are some common signs of heat stroke.

Excessive panting

Lethargy

Weakness

Vomiting

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High fever

Rapid heartbeat

Dark red gums

Drooling

Warm/dry skin

Staring expressions

Unresponsiveness to surroundings

If you think your pet may be having a heat stroke immediately take your pet to the closest veterinary clinic. It could save their life.

Tracy Frost, LVT