Spike in Pet Ailments During Summer
Summertime Fun Can Send More Pets to the Vet
Analysis of VPI Pet Insurance policyholder claims shows an increase in injuries during the summer.
“Pets are treated more frequently in the summer due to their increased exposure to the outdoors,
” says Dr. Carol McConnell, Vice President of Underwriting and Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for VPI. Dr. McConnell advises pet owners to be cautious about overdoing summer activities with their pets. Consider these tips to prevent pet injuries during the warmer months.
Foreign Bodies
Foxtails—a type of grass with sharp, bristlelike fibers commonly found on paths and grassy hillsides—are a serious hazard. They can become embedded in your pet’s paws, ears, eyes or nose, potentially causing infection.
Stings and Bites
Rid your yard of even the shallowest pools of water (including the toddler’s pool) so mosquitoes don’t breed, and keep your pet away from bees, wasps and woodpiles that may harbor spiders.
Overheating
Keep your pet indoors as much as possible during the warmest hours of the day (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Never leave your pet in the car unattended, even with the windows open, and always have an ample supply of clean drinking water available.
Pets Get Burns, Too
Sunburn is common on pets’ body areas not protected by fur or dark skin such as the nose, tips of the ears and underbelly, and may lead to skin cancer. Sunscreen may help prevent both sunburn and skin cancer, especially in pets with light fur and pale pigmentation. Ask your veterinarian about pet-friendly sun protection products.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are frequently caused by trapped water in a dog’s ear after swimming or bathing. If your pet engages in water activities, ask your veterinarian about ear cleaning products that help dry the ear canal to prevent recurring ear infections.