The summer season brings many glorious sunny days, but it also can bring scorching temperatures that can have adverse effects on our furry friends. As responsible pet owners, it is important to understand the impact that summer heat can have on dogs and take necessary precautions to keep them safe and comfortable.

What Temperatures are Too Hot for Dogs?

Unlike people, dogs have a very limited ability to sweat, which in turn makes them rather inefficient in cooling their body temperature. In fact, your dog’s main cooling mechanism is by panting, which is why being confined in a small, closed space with high temperatures (like a closed and locked car on a summer day) can quickly lead to overheating and heat stroke. The temperature threshold at which it becomes unsafe for dogs to be outside varies based on factors such as breed, size, age, and overall health. However, as a general guideline, it is advisable to keep dogs indoors or provide shade and water whenever the temperature exceeds 85°F. Above 90°F (32°C), the risk of heatstroke significantly increases.

Prevention Methods to Keep Dogs Safe

There are a number of ways to safeguard your pet against the summer heat and help keep them safe and cool.

• Provide Ample Shade: Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas, such as under trees or umbrellas, when outdoors. Consider creating a covered spot with a canopy or awning.
• Fresh Water Supply: Always keep a bowl of fresh, cool water available for your dog. Check it regularly to ensure that it remains clean and replenished.
• Limit Outdoor Exercise: Restrict physical activities during peak heat hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, schedule walks or playtime in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler.
• Protective Paw Care: Hot pavement or sand can burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog on grassy areas whenever possible and avoid streets and sidewalks, or use protective booties to shield their paws from hot surfaces.
• Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels rapidly, leading to heat stroke or death.
  Beating the Heat- Protecting Your Canine Companion in Summer

Signs of Overheating

When temperatures rise be vigilant and do your best to recognize signs of heat stress or overheating in dogs as soon as they occur. Common indicators include excessive panting and drooling, rapid or irregular heartbeat, lethargy or weakness, glazed eyes, and dizziness, vomiting or diarrhea, dark or bright red gums and tongue, and/or collapse or seizures.

Steps to Take If Your Dog is Overheating

• Move to a Cooler Area: Bring your dog indoors or seek shade immediately.
• Offer Water: Allow your dog to drink small amounts of cool water. Do not force them to drink.
• Cool Down: Wet your dog’s body with cool (not cold) water. You can use damp towels or spray water gently on them. Apply cold packs to their head, neck, and chest.
• Fan Air: Use a fan or air conditioning to facilitate air circulation and help lower their body temperature.
• Contact your Veterinarian: Even if your dog appears to recover, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention. Internal damage may not be apparent, and professional evaluation is necessary to avoid the possibility of long-term effects to your pet’s health.

As summer temperatures soar, it is our responsibility to protect our four-legged companions from the perils of excessive heat. By understanding the risks, implementing preventive measures, and recognizing the signs of overheating, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved dogs. Remember, a little extra care goes a long way in keeping them cool, comfortable, and healthy during the hot summer months.

Are you thinking about adding a furry family member to your home? Adopting a shelter pet can be a rewarding experience for both you and your new companion. In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of adopting a shelter pet, from improved health to increased happiness.

Companionship

One of the most obvious benefits of adopting a shelter pet is the companionship they provide. Whether you’re looking for a loyal dog to take on long walks or a cuddly cat to curl up with on the couch, there’s a shelter pet out there waiting for you. The bond a pet can provide also helps reduce feelings of loneliness and provides a sense routine in your daily life.

Improved Health

Adopting a shelter pet can even have positive effects on your physical and mental health. Studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, and reduced stress levels. Pets can also encourage physical activity, whether it’s playing with a frisky kitten or taking a dog for a walk and playing fetch. Additionally, pets can provide emotional support during difficult times, helping to reduce anxiety and depression.

Happiness

It’s no secret that pets can bring joy into our lives. Adopting a pet can increase happiness and satisfaction in both you and your new friend. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of a wagging tail or a purring cat on your lap to brighten your day. Adopting a pet can also give you a sense of fulfillment knowing that you’ve given an animal in need a loving home. Pets can bring a sense of purpose and responsibility to a family.

Adoption Benefits

When you adopt a shelter pet, you’re not only gaining a companion, but you’re also helping to save a life. Many shelters are overcrowded and underfunded, which means that animals are at risk of being euthanized if they are not adopted. By adopting a shelter pet, you’re providing a loving home to an animal in need, and helping to reduce the number of homeless pets in your community.

Adopting a pet from the shelter can bring countless benefits to your life, including companionship, improved health, and increased happiness with an added sense of purpose. It’s also a rewarding experience to know that you’re giving an animal in need a second chance at life. If you’ve discussed with your family and have decided you are ready for the responsibility of a new pet, adoption is one option to consider when adding a new furry family member!

As the weather changes and seasons shift, many pet owners begin to notice changes in their furry friends’ behavior and health. Unfortunately, just like humans, pets can also suffer from seasonal allergies. Identifying the signs and symptoms of allergies in your canine companion is important, as it can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care and how to treat your pet’s allergies.

What are Pet Seasonal Allergies?

Similar to people, pets develop allergic conditions when their immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, or mold. When your pet comes into contact with these allergens, their immune system produces an allergic response that triggers their symptoms.

Where pets and people differ with allergies is the symptoms they produce. While people get runny noses, itchy eyes and respiratory signs, pets typically have the following common symptoms:

• Itchy skin
• Scratching or rubbing at ears
• Licking or chewing at paws or skin

If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s important to take them to the vet for an examination. Allergies are not the only think that can cause itching in dogs! Your vet will likely run diagnostic tests to determine if there are infections, parasites, or other causes of itch as these will require different treatments.

Treatment for Pet Seasonal Allergies

There are a variety of treatment options available for allergies in dogs and cats, depending on the severity of your pet’s symptoms. Your vet will be in the best position to recommend which ones are best for your situation. They may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Apoquel – medications that are used to treat allergic skin conditions in dogs. It works by inhibiting the production of certain molecules involved in the inflammatory response, which helps to reduce itching and other symptoms of allergic skin conditions.
• Immunotherapy – this medication works by targeting a molecule called interleukin-31 (IL-31), which is involved in the inflammatory response that causes itching and other symptoms of allergic skin conditions
• Antihistamines – while less effective in the treatment of pet allergies, these can sometimes help by blocking the release of histamines, which are chemicals that cause allergic reactions
• Corticosteroids – these can reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system’s response to allergens
• Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy – this involves exposing your pet to small doses of the allergen over time, in effort to build up their immunity to it
• Topical treatments – these can include medicated shampoos, creams, or sprays that can be used to help relieve itching and soothe irritated skin

Prevention of Pet Seasonal Allergies

While you may not be able to completely prevent your pet from developing seasonal allergies, there are some steps you can take to minimize their exposure to allergens. Some of these include:

• Keep your pet indoors on days with a high allergen counts
• Bathe and groom your pet regularly to remove pollen and other allergens from their fur
• Work with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet is on a quality parasite preventative plan as fleas and insect bites can cause allergic flares
• Vacuum and dust regularly to help keep your home clean and free from dust and to reduce the amount of allergens in your pets environment

Crate training is an effective way to train your dog and provide them with a safe and comfortable space of their own. They can go to their kennel when feeling stressed or anxious, and the enclosed space of a crate can prevent them from wandering the house and getting into things they shouldn’t.

1. Benefits of Crate Training

Crate training has several benefits for both you and your pup. A crate can provide your dog with a safe, secure place to relax, rest, and decompress, especially when you’re not home. It can help with housebreaking and prevent destructive behaviors, as your dog won’t be able to chew on furniture and other non-toy items in the home. Additionally, a crate can help your dog when traveling with your dog or during vet visits!

2. Choosing the Right Crate

When choosing a crate for your dog, consider their size and weight, as well as their personality and behavior. A crate should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use one area for sleeping and the other for potty purposes. Some dogs may prefer an open-wire crate, while others may feel more secure in an enclosed crate. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s sturdy and safe.

3. Introducing Your Dog to the Crate

Introduce your pup to the crate gradually and in a positive manner. Place the crate in a quiet area of your home and leave the door open, allowing your dog to explore and sniff around the crate. Once they have satisfied their curiosity, begin feeding them meals inside and give lots of treats and praise when they enter voluntarily. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate until they are comfortable for longer periods when you must leave or if you plan to kennel them at bedtime. Choose a command to tell them it’s time to enter the crate and make sure other members of your household use the same command to be consistent.

4. Crate Training Do’s and Don’ts

There are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when crate training your dog. Do make the kennel a comfy and positive space for your dog. Do not use it as punishment or leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time. Make sure to provide enough exercise, stimulation, and attention outside of the crate daily. Never force your dog into the kennel or use it as a substitute for training or socialization.

Crate training can be a positive way to train your dog and provide them with a safe space. With patience and consistency, your dog can learn to love their crate and make it their very own cozy space.

Taking a road trip with your dog can be an exciting and memorable experience! Tails wagging, tongues rolling, laughter, and having your best friend by your side can make all the difference on a long car ride. However, it requires careful planning to ensure that both you and your pet have a safe and fun journey. Here are some tips and best practices for road-tripping with your dog.

1. Choose Dog-Friendly Destinations and Accommodations

When planning a trip out of town, it’s important to pick pet-safe and pet-friendly destinations and accommodations if you plan on bringing your furry friend. Research is key! Look for hotels, Airbnbs, or campsites that allow canines, and learn about some of the pet-friendly places and activities in that specific area. Many places have pet restrictions, so be sure to check out their policies before making the trek with your pup. If staying with family or friends, make sure they are aware your dog will be joining you and that they have the space and capacity to accommodate them.

2. Prep Your Pup for the Trip

Before hitting the road, try to gauge how comfortable your dog is with car rides. Do they get nervous? Shaking, whining, and drooling can be signs they are anxious. Take short rides with them to get them accustomed to being in the car for extended periods. If they’re a nervous rider, you can talk to your vet about safe anxiety remedies. Motion sickness may also be an issue, especially on extended car rides. Your vet can prescribe medication to help with car sickness.

Pack all their essentials in advance. Make a checklist with necessities such as food, water, bowls, leash/harness, medications, toys, treats, and a comfy bed or crate where they can sleep or decompress. Additionally, check with your vet that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and have their collar on with an ID tag attached.

3. Guarantee a Safe and Comfy Ride

Make sure your dog is secure during the drive. Use a pet carrier or seatbelt harness to keep them in place and prevent them from moving around too much when on the road. The back seat is the safest place for your dog and be sure to not open the window to the point they could jump out. Even if your pup has ridden with his head out the window before, on long car rides pets can become anxious, and their behavior can change.

As far as comfort, make sure to take plenty of potty breaks along the way and let them stretch their legs. If your dog is an active breed, schedule out some time to stop by a park or running trail where you can get some of their energy out with a game of fetch or a walk. Double check you packed plenty of food and that they have access to plenty of fresh water.

Never, ever leave your pet alone in the car! The internal temperature of a car can rise and fall much faster than it does outside, and they’re at risk of theft if left alone.

4. Prepare for Emergencies

No matter how much planning you do to ensure the road trip is fun and safe for your dog, sometimes emergencies can happen. Be prepared with a pet first-aid kit and contact info for emergency veterinary clinics along your route. Keep a recent photo of Fido on hand in case they get lost.

Cats have a reputation for being independent and self-sufficient creatures, but like all pets, they can get sick. As a cat owner, it’s important to be aware of the signs that your pet might be unwell and what options you have to keep them happy and healthy. If you become aware of any of the following signs in your cat, take notice.

1. Change in Appetite

If your cat suddenly stops eating or begins eating more than usual, it can be a sign that something is wrong. Possible reasons may be dental issues, digestive issues, or even something more serious like cancer. For example, dental issues can make it painful for a cat to eat hard food, causing them to lose their appetite. On the other hand, if your cat is eating much more than normal, it could be a sign of endocrine dysfunction. Or in some cases, like gastrointestinal problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, there can be both over-eating and under-eating at different stages of illness.

2. Change in Behavior

Abnormal hiding is a tell-tail sign your cat isn’t feeling well. Changes in activity levels, i.e. if your cat becomes more lethargic or less active than usual, is another sign that something is off. Cats who are feeling pain or discomfort may sleep more, move less, and be less interested in play or interaction with their owners. Additionally, if your cat becomes more vocal or start displaying aggression, it could be an indication of an underlying health problem. Cats will exhibit these changes in behavior to express their discomfort and/or pain.

3. Change in Grooming

Cats are fastidious groomers, so if you notice your cat has stopped grooming itself or has a matted coat, it could indicate they’re feeling ill. Cats who are sick may not have the energy or motivation to groom themselves, leading to a dirty and matted coat.

4. Change in Litter Box Habits

If your cat starts to urinate or defecate outside of the litter box, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or another health issue. Cats with urinary tract infections may associate the litter box with pain, leading to an avoidance of the box. Additionally, if a cat has a gastrointestinal issue, it may cause them to have diarrhea or constipation, which can also lead to an aversion to the litter box.

5. Change in Appearance

If you notice any lumps, bumps, or changes in your cat’s coat, such as hair loss, it could be a sign of a serious health problem. This can indicate a more serious condition such as cancer, and it’s a good idea to have your cat examined by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Contact Your Veterinarian

It is important to note that these signs can be caused by many different things and in some cases, it may be something minor. Introducing a new pet into the home or a change of environment may cause your cat’s behavior to change temporarily. However, if you notice a change in appetite, behavior, grooming, habits, or appearance, it’s better to be on the safe side and consult with your veterinarian about your cat’s health.

Cats, like all animals, can be prone to certain diseases. If you’re a cat parent, it’s important to be aware of the most common diseases in cats and learn how to spot and prevent them. When ill, your feline companion may exhibit signs of stress, such as changes in weight, behavior, and appearance. By understanding some of the common health issues that can affect cats, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your cat stays healthy.

Upper respiratory infections

Cats are prone to upper respiratory infections, which are caused by viruses, such as feline herpesvirus and calicivirus and can sometimes have secondary bacterial infections. These infections can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and eye discharge. Upper respiratory infections are highly contagious, so it’s important to keep your cat isolated from other pets and animals if they are showing symptoms. Veterinarians can best identify and recommend treatments that can help.

Dental disease

Just like humans, cats can also suffer from dental disease. This can lead to tooth decay and loss, bad breath, and even heart and kidney problems. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help prevent dental disease and keep your cat’s pearly whites healthy.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder that typically affects older cats. It is caused by an overactive thyroid gland which causes the body’s metabolism to speed up, resulting in weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and radioactive iodine therapy.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a common disease in felines, and is characterized by a deficiency in insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Symptoms of diabetes may present as increased thirst, increased urination, and weight loss. In most cases, this disease can be managed by insulin injections and dietary management.

Feline Leukemia (FeLV)

This disease is caused by a virus and can be transmitted through close contact with other cats. Symptoms are wide and vairied, and can include changes in blood counts and increased susceptibility to other infections and certain types of cancer. Testing can be done easily by your veterinarian who can also recommend preventive measures (i.e. vaccination).

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

FIV is caused by a virus that attacks a cat’s immune system. This virus can be transmitted through bites and scratches. Lethargy, weight loss, and susceptibility to infection can all be symptoms of FIV. There is no cure, but early detection and management can help prolong your cat’s life.

Prevention

It’s important to note that regular check-ups and vaccinations can help prevent many of these diseases. If your cat is showing any of the above symptoms or showing other signs that they are unwell, it’s a good idea to have them checked out by your veterinarian, who can administer proper diagnosis and treatment.

Join us for a pet-friendly day at our new location at Phillips Creek!

Join us for a fun-filled day at our Valentine’s Day Grand Opening event! Bring your furry friends and enjoy a variety of activities including a themed photobooth, the coolest vintage car-bar serving beer and cocktails, exciting games, and chances to win great prizes. Treat your pets to some delicious treats from the Pet Treat Truck while you mingle with our team and check out our clinic!

Date & Time:
Sat, December 17, 2022
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM CST

Location:
CityVet-Phillips Creek
415 Lebanon Rd
Frisco, TX 75036

This holiday season, CityVet is partnering with local rescues and shelters to extend a paw and help feed hungry pets. From now until December 18th, CityVet is accepting unopened dry or wet dog and cat food at select CityVet locations near you.

Each of our amazing Doctors of Veterinary Medicine at each location has selected a local charity or shelter that is near and dear to their hearts. Through this initiative, anyone is able to give back and foster deep relationships with the local communities that mean the most to them.

Donation boxes are open at select CityVet and RuffIt locations. Find your location below and check out one of the many local organizations our team is giving back to this holiday season.

Below is a list of CityVet locations and their chosen corresponding charities.