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Dog Parks: Not Always Just Fun and Games
Now that summer is in full swing, we know that a lot of you frequent dog parks with your four-legged buddies. While we don't want to discourage you from heading to the park, we want you to be aware of the potential medical problems that could arise. Veterinary Pet Insurance went through its database to compile a list of the most common dog park-related injuries in 2011. The results came up as follows: - Sprains and soft tissue injuries
- Lacerations and bite wounds
- Kennel cough or upper respiratory infections
- Insect bites
- Head trauma
- Hyperthermia or heat stroke
- Parasite infection
- Parvovirus
Now we realize that short of keeping your pet in a bubble, there is no way to completely prevent these problems from occurring. We do have some tips, though:
- Obey all posted park rules.
- Pay attention to your dog at all times. Be aware of the other pets as well.
- If your pup is less than 4 months old, stay home.
- Keep your pet up to date on vaccinations and licensing.
- Make sure your dog has a collar on.
- On warm days, avoid the park during the hottest time- usually between 10am and 4pm.
- Watch for signs of overheating: profuse and rapid panting, a bright red tongue, thick saliva, and decreased coordination. If you notice these signs, see us or the emergency center right away!
We want you and your pets to be able to enjoy the warm months while they're here, and we hope these tips help you keep your furry friends safe.
