Should I Schedule a Wellness Check-Up for My Pet After Summer?

Summer’s fun activities and outdoor adventures, like trips to the park, hikes, and beach days, can expose your pet to hidden health risks such as ticks, parasites, dehydration, or paw injuries from hot surfaces. At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we know that a post-summer wellness check-up can be a great way to catch any potential issues early, address any concerns like weight changes or allergies, and ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy all year long.

A wellness check-up for your pet after summer can provide:

• Early detection of summer-related health issues
• Parasite screening for fleas, ticks, and other pests
• Skin condition assessment from environmental exposure
• Vaccination updates and preventative care adjustments
• Behavioral evaluation after seasonal changes
• Nutritional guidance for upcoming seasons

Potential Summer Hazards That Affect Your Pet

Environmental Hazards

Summer brings increased exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins. Many pet owners use insecticides, herbicides, and fertilizers on their lawns and gardens. These kinds of products can cause serious health problems if your pet walks on recently treated areas or ingests contaminated grass.

Pond algae presents another risk during warmer months. Certain types of algae can make pets severely ill if they drink from contaminated water sources. Pool chemicals and citronella candles add to the list of other summer toxins your pet might encounter.

Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests

Warmer weather means increased parasite activity. Fleas and ticks tend to thrive in summer conditions, making your pet more susceptible to infestations. These parasites can transmit diseases and cause skin irritation.

Other summer pests include mosquitoes, wasps, and spiders. Mosquito bites can transmit heartworm, while bee stings and spider bites can cause allergic reactions or poisoning in sensitive pets.

Benefits of a Post-Summer Wellness Check-Up

Early Detection of Summer-Related Issues

Your veterinarian can identify problems before they become serious. Heat exposure, dehydration, and overexertion during summer activities can affect your pet’s organs and overall health. A thorough examination can help reveal any lingering effects from the summer.

Parasite and Skin Condition Check

Professional examination detects parasites your pet may have picked up during outdoor activities. Your vet will check for pests like fleas, ticks, and mites while examining your pet’s skin for irritation, hot spots, or allergic reactions from environmental exposure.

Vaccination and Preventative Care

Summer activities may require updated preventative treatments. Your veterinarian can adjust flea, tick, and heartworm prevention based on your pet’s recent exposure risks. They’ll also ensure vaccinations remain current for continued protection.

Behavioral Assessment

Seasonal changes can affect your pet’s behavior and stress levels. Fireworks, thunderstorms, and increased activity during summer months may have impacted your pet’s emotional well-being. Your vet can recommend solutions for anxiety or behavioral changes.

Nutritional Adjustment

Your pet’s nutritional needs may change with activity levels and seasons. After an active summer, your veterinarian can recommend dietary adjustments to support your pet’s health as the weather cools and activity patterns shift.

Visit Now to Protect Your Pet’s Health Year-Round

Regular wellness check-ups provide the foundation for your pet’s long-term health. At Blue Lake Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive veterinary services including preventative medicine, dental care, and other treatments to help a wide range of animals live healthy, happy lives.

Don’t wait for problems to develop. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s post-summer wellness check-up and ensure they stay healthy and happy throughout the year.