Things to Consider Before Visiting the Dog Park
From socialization to exercise, your local dog park offers so much for your pet. This is the perfect spot to spend your days this summer. However, there are a few health risks you need to consider before visiting the dog park.
Infectious Diseases
Hundreds of dogs visit the dog park everyday. In areas like this, the risk of catching an infectious disease is often higher. Kennel cough and canine influenza are the most common diseases, and can spread through dog parks extremely fast.
It’s important to make sure that your dog is up-to-date on all of their vaccinations before visiting the dog park. Even though dogs may still be able to catch diseases they’ve been vaccinated for, vaccinated pets often experience less severe symptoms.
Avoid sharing bowls at the dog park, as this can increase the likelihood of your dog catching a disease. Instead, bring your own collapsible dish. It’s also important to clean up after your pet. This helps reduce the spread of intestinal parasites.
Fleas and Ticks
Fleas can be easily passed from one dog to the next. You’ll need to protect your dog before visiting the dog park. There are several different flea treatments available today. Your veterinarian can provide you with recommendations.
Check your pet for ticks after leaving the dog park or any other grassy or wooded area. If you find a tick, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Improper removal can cause the head to break off inside your pet. This can lead to infection. Take your pet to your vet or groomer for tick removal.
Heatstroke
Anytime you take your dog outside during the summer, you run the risk of heatstroke. Heatstroke is a serious condition, requiring immediate medical intervention. Without prompt treatment, heatstroke can be deadly.
Make sure you have plenty of cool, fresh water available for your pet, and that you encourage them to spend some time in the shade. If you notice anything odd about your pet’s behavior, remove them from the sun immediately.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming from our full service grooming salon in Orange County, California. Please call 714-962-1005 to setup a grooming appointment for your pet.