November Newsletter 2016

Summer is right around the corner and as the days get warmer, you may be noticing that your pet may be scratching more than usual. Itching and skin problems often start with seasonal changes and can often get worse before they get better.  Here’s a few things to look out for to ensure that your pet is comfortable and happy during the warm season!

 Fleas enjoy the warmer months meaning an increase of their presence in our homes, especially as our pets spend more time outside. Only a small percentage of the adult flea population live on your pet as they tend to jump on to feed and jump off again. The fleas’ egg and larvae can survive in your home all year and are hard to get rid of so it’s important to decontaminate the environment as well as treat your animal directly. To do this, wash all your pet’s bedding using the hottest cycle and regularly vacuum and clean carpets where the eggs and larvae live. Some animals may have a reaction to flea saliva, resulting in a condition called FLEA ALLERGY DERMATITIS (FAD) that causes serious discomfort for your pet and treatment can be complicated which is why it is especially important to remain on top of flea treatment. It is also important to mention that not all flea treatments are water resistant so if you have a pet that swims or is bathed regularly during summer, ask one of the nurses for a product that is right for your pet’s lifestyle.

Atopic dermatitis is a condition resulting from a hypersensitivity to environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and mould. Unfortunately it is a lifelong condition however there are ways to control and maintain it to keep your pet happy and comfortable. It is a common condition with symptoms including chewing, licking, biting, rubbing, scratching, hair loss, and inflammation of the skin. If your pet is showing these signs, you may benefit from a consultation with your vet to diagnose the issue and get medical treatment to help give your pet relief. Ask a nurse at the front counter for more information and hand outs about atopic dermatitis.

Hot spots are a common problem that can occur throughout the year but are seen more frequently in the warmer months. A hot spot, also known as acute moist dermatitis, are a localised area of skin inflammation and infection. There are many causes of hot spots, as anything that irritates the skin can cause them including fleas, allergic reactions, stress, poor grooming, or dogs that swim regularly. Hot spots grow at an alarming rate as dogs tend to lick, bite, and itch at the area due to discomfort, causing them to become bigger and more uncomfortable. Signs of a hot spot include: redness, inflammation, oozing, pain, and itchiness. To prevent hot spots, ensure that dog is groomed regularly, that a strict flea treatment routine is adhered to, that dogs are washed and dried properly after swimming and bathing, that skin allergies are under kept under control, and to keep your pet’s environment stress and boredom free by ensuring they get adequate amounts of exercise and opportunities for play and social interaction.

Outside of skin issues, there are other things to think about to ensure that our furry friends get the most out of the summer months and can enjoy them in comfort. Here are a few things to consider:

• Water: Ensure that all your pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times. Unlike humans, animals cannot regulate their body temperatures through sweating and so need other ways to cool down. Try placing multiple bowls around your house and property in shady areas to keep your pet hydrated and happy. For rabbits and guinea pigs who are particularly susceptible to heat, try putting a frozen water bottle in their hutches to help them cool down during the day.
• Shade: All pets need a cool, shady place to lie in during the summer, especially at the hottest part of the day. It’s also important to consider your caged pets and make sure that they are away from direct sunlight.
• Exercise: As the weather gets better, it is natural to want to get out and enjoy the sun with your pets. However, it is best to take your pets for walks in the early morning or late afternoon. By missing the hottest part of the day, you are lessening the risk of dehydration, sunburn, heatstroke, or burnt paws from walking on hot concrete.
•  Sunscreen: Pets can get burnt too! Those with pink or light coloured skin on their ears, forehead, nose, and lips are vulnerable to sunburn and susceptible to skin cancer. It may pay to keep your pets out of the sun between 10 and 4 when the sun is at its hottest and to invest in pet sunscreen.
• Car safety: NEVER leave your pets inside a car on a hot day. If it feels too hot for you inside your vehicle, spare a thought for your pets who have a layer of fur keeping them insulated. It takes only minutes for your pet to experience serious health issues when trapped inside a hot car.

 What’s new?

Bravecto have brought out a new range of spot-on flea treatment for cats. It is the longest acting flea and tick treatment that offers three months protection in a single dose and is an ideal flea treatment for cats suffering from FAD (flea allergy dermatitis). For more information, speak to one of our nurses to see if Bravecto is right for your feline friends.

All the best,

Whangaparaoa Vet Centre