Blackness Veterinary Surgery

82 Brook St, Dundee, DD1 5BP, tel. 01382 225422, fax 01382 322078

HEALTH ADVICE FOR THE SUMMERTIME

The summer is now here and , while our pets all enjoy being able to get out and about in the nicer weather when the heat goes up there are a few ways we can make their summer a bit more comfortable.

1. WATER AND SHADE

It is particularly important that older animals, and those smaller pets like rabbits or guinea pigs which may be confined to a run, have continuous access to water and shade. Heat stress can come on a pet very quickly but most pets will regulate their own temperature if they have the opportunity to get into the shade and cool down. An older dog that may be having trouble moving around may not realise that it is getting quite hot, this can lead to severe problems especially if it has pre-existing heart or breathing problems. Similarly rabbits and guinea pigs can tolerate quite low environmental temperatures much better than heat and can suffer even on a relatively cool day.

If you think that your pet has heat stress, if he is a lot more difficult to rouse than normal, he is panting excessively or looks very flushed or pale PHONE A VET STRAIGHT AWAY. Take him out of the sun and cool him down gently with wet towels especially on the tummy where the hair is thinner. Offer small drinks of water, don't let him drink too much in one go as this may make him sick.

It is especially important never to leave your pet in the car in the summer even with a window a short way down as the heat can build up in very little time

   2.  BEES AND WASPS

Being naturally inquisitive it is natural that a few pets will get stung over the summer months, even indoor cats will chase the odd buzzing insect and feel very sorry for themselves afterward. In general stings should cause no more than a passing irritation however some animals will have a more severe reaction.

If your pet is stung on the face or neck area and there is swelling that increases rapidly so that there may be difficulty breathing, or f he faints or vomits following the sting PHONE A VET STRAIGHT AWAY!

The general advice for stings is to remove the sting taking care not to squeeze it into the animal and bathe the affected area with cool water with a solution of bicarbonate of soda for bees stings and vinegar for wasp stings. If swelling or pain persists PHONE YOUR VET and they may be able to advise further treatment at home. Although antihistamines may provide some relief there are none that are specifically licensed (i.e. have been comprehensibly tested for safety) for animals and therefore you should only use these or other human medications under a vet's advice.

   3. SUNBURN

Most animals have their natural furry protection against sunburn but those with a white coat, or even just white ears or noses will be at risk from the sun. Sunburn in white or pale coated animals can turn to skin cancer so it is important to provide your pet with the same precautions we would take ourselves. If possible avoid being out at times of day when the sun is strongest and apply a strong sun block (suitable for babies if an animal one is unavailable) to vulnerable ears and noses. This may also apply to thin or sparse haired breeds such as Chinese crested dogs.

   4. FLY STRIKE

Fly strike is the term we use for when a fly lays its eggs on a animal, usually on a wound or soiled area, and the subsequent maggots eat into the animal's skin. Rabbits are particularly susceptible to fly strike, especially if they are overweight or have bad teeth as this can prevent them from grooming effectively. If their bottoms are soiled due to these factors, a change in diet or general lack of exercises flies are attracted to the area and maggots can hatch in as little as 12 hours. It is important that all rabbits are check twice a day in the summer months, especially if there are any risk factors as above.  Fly eggs look like fine sawdust and can be washed off. Maggots may need specialist attention as they can secrete toxins that can make a rabbit quite ill even if they have not penetrated the skin. If you feel your rabbit  may be at risk a vet will be able to advise on further preventative treatments that can be applied to help reduce the chance of fly strike.

By following the above advice we hope that you and your pets can enjoy the summer months happily together!