With the high temperatures this year, parasites have started their life cycles much earlier in the year. This means that pest populations will likely be higher and are more likely to be a problem for our pets. Heartworms can be easily dealt with by giving heartworm preventative. We should check your pet's stool to look for intestinal parasites such as round worms, hook worms, and tape worms. Mosquitoes, which spread heartworms, can be addressed by applying a tick/flea/mosquito repellent such as Vectra.

The high temperatures affect your pet directly besides fostering greater parasite populations. Dogs should not be left outside in the hottest parts of the day. While they are outside, make sure they have access to shade and plenty of water. Puppies and elderly dogs are at much more risk for overheating and heatstroke than those in the prime of their lives. Dogs with heart and respiratory conditions need to be watched very carefully in the heat and they would fare better to avoid the hottest parts of the day outside. Any work, play, or exertion will make a dog overheat much more quickly than one lolling about or sleeping in the heat.

With respect to heat, dogs and cats pant when their body temperature rises. While everyone has seen the panting dog with its tongue hanging out, a panting cat is a much less common sight. Cats usually do not need to pant until their body temperature reaches a higher point than that of dogs. While a panting dog is not a concern in itself, a panting cat needs your attention and is a more serious warning sign of over heating for them. Remove your cat from the heat, keep him calm, and call us for recommendations based upon your cat's specific medical condition.