Here's a few tips designed to keep your pets healthy and happy all year round.
Ear Problems
Ear problems are among the most common reasons for bringing your pet to the veterinarian. Not only are ear disorders likely to occur, they are also likely to be difficult to cure. The best way to protect your pet is for your veterinarian to establish a regular ear care program aimed at preventing such problems, and treating them if they do appear.
Parasite Control
Throughout its life, your pet will come in contact with a variety of external and internal parasites including ticks,fleas and worms. Since parasites can harm your pet, it is important to control them through early detection and professional treatment. This can be accomplished by visiting your veterinarian regularly.
Make sure your pet is in good health. Many states and all foreign countries require current rabies and health certificates, so keep your Pet Health Medical record up-to-date and bring it along with you.
Control your pet at all times, and always use a leash.
Although many hotels and resorts welcome pets, and have special facilities for them you should always call ahead to confirm acceptance of your pet to minimalize potential delays or problems.
Never leave your pet unattended in a closed car, especially in hot weather. Heat stroke and death can occur rapidly.
If motion sickness is a problem, your veterinarian can reccomend medication to prevent it and to calm your pet.
Always restrict food and water before traveling.
At your destination, give food and water sparingly, and offer plenty of affection.
The Vet at the Barn 790 Chestnut Ridge Road Chestnut Ridge, New York 10977 phone: 845 356-3838 fax: 845 356-4307
- Antifreeze can be deadly if ingested so make sure to clean any spills and your pets paws - Always use a pet-safe salt for ice melting - Holiday decorations should be kept out of reach so they can’t be ingested (tinsel, artificial snow, ornaments) - Ivy, Holy, Mistletoe Hibiscus, Poinsettia, Lilies and Christmas greens can be toxic if ingested so keep out of reach of pets - Frostbite or hypothermia can occur during colder weather, animals should not be left outside for extended periods of time especially in under 40 degree weather - Signs of hypothermia include- shivering, lethargy, low heart rate, unresponsiveness - Short hair dogs, puppies, or geriatrics may benefit from a sweater when outdoors - Keep your pets active by providing exercise 10-15 minutes once to twice daily training for stimulation - Pets burn lots of energy during the winter so you may consider increasing food consumption by 10% if pet is active
Outside shelter during winter - should be raised off the ground - should have blankets, shavings, or straw and be changed frequently - should have a flap or door to protect against the elements - should be small enough to retain body heat - should change water frequently to prevent freezing
