PetDoctor.com.au

Lots of problems become more apparent as the weather gets warmer – flies, fleas, ticks, grass seeds, sunburn, heat and don’t forget bad eating habits at the Barbeque!

Remember, things that annoy you will also annoy your pet so remember that they may also need insect repellent, suncare and some respite from the heat.

Flies
Flies love biting dogs’ ears, especially if your dog is a German Shepherd where the tips of the ears are vulnerable. In floppy eared dogs, the area at the back of the ear where it folds down is usually a favourite feeding ground for flies.

There are some excellent over-the-counter preparations available from the veterinary clinic which repel flies. Do not use human preparations.

Heat
Heat can be a real killer.

• Do not leave your dog in the car on hot days
• Restrict your dog’s exercise to prevent over heating

Dogs most likely to suffer from heat stress are those with pre-existing breathing problems as well as short nosed breeds (eg bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese, boxers) as they are unable to cool down effectively by panting.
Your dog should always have access to shade and plenty of water and on days of extreme heat you can wet the head and back of your dog to help with cooling.

Sunburn
Sunburn can be a real problem in some pets and, just like with people, long term exposure often leads to skin cancer.

Animals who are particularly at risk are cats with white ears and pink noses as well as dogs with pink bellies who enjoying sunbaking on their backs.
If you have a cat with a pink nose and/or white ears, you have several options. Firstly make them an indoor cat (this also prevents misadventure such as being run over by a car, fighting and prevents possibility of contracting illnesses such as feline AIDS) or keep them indoors during the middle of the day over spring and summer. Alternatively the sensitive skin area can be treated to make it more sun proof – eg with sunscreen or tattoo.

Breeds such as Bull terriers love sunbaking. Some owners make their pooch wear a UV suit to block the sun. Alternatively sunscreen can be used on the belly. If you are concerned about your dog’s face, peaked caps can be used to help block the sun.

Fleas
Warm weather always means an increase in the number of fleas.

If your dog or cat is allergic to fleas, one or two fleas is enough to keep your pooch scratching. Usually the animal will chew and scratch at its skin near the tail and along the back. The skin in the area may look red and there may be scabs and hair loss.

Your vet can give you advice on what agents to use to control fleas. Many are once a month preparations which are very effective, easy to administer and don’t involve bathing the animal. Products include adulticides, which kill adult fleas, and growth regulators, which prevent flea eggs from developing into adult fleas.

Regardless of which product you use, it is essential that all your cats and dogs are treated at the same time.