Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and quality time with our pets —but it also brings unique challenges for both dogs and cats. From pesky parasites to overheating risks, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your pets happy and healthy all summer long.
Here are the top things to watch out for this summer—and how Emancipet is here to help.
1. Fleas: Persistent and Itchy
Warm weather means fleas are out in full force. The ideal temperature for fleas is between 70-85 degrees, however they can also be active at temperatures colder and hotter than this range, depending on environmental conditions.These tiny pests can cause serious skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even tapeworms in both cats and dogs.
Care Tip: Keep your pets on a monthly flea preventative. Vacuum regularly, wash pet bedding, and check your pets after outdoor activities.
Emancipet Can Help: We offer affordable flea prevention options for both dogs and cats. Visit one of our clinics to protect your pet today. Not sure what may be causing that itch for your pet? Bring them into our clinic for a Healthy Pet Services visit! Emancipet offers diagnosis and treatment of a variety of skin and ear issues, including fleas.
2. Ticks: Small Bites, Big Problems
Ticks aren’t just pesky bugs —they can transmit serious diseases like Lyme Disease which can also be transmitted to humans. Ticks often hide in tall grass, wooded areas, or even your backyard.
Care Tip: After walks or hikes, do a thorough tick check, especially around the ears, neck, and between toes. Use tick prevention year-round, but be extra vigilant in the summer.
Emancipet Can Help: We carry effective, affordable tick preventatives and can help guide you on what’s best for your pet.
3. Heartworm: Invisible but Dangerous
Heartworm disease is spread by mosquitoes and can be life-threatening—especially during mosquito season.
Care Tip: Keep your pet on monthly heartworm prevention. Cats are at risk too, even if they stay indoors.
Emancipet Can Help: We provide heartworm testing for dogs and prevention for dogs and cats. Come see us for guidance on the right products and schedules.
→ Did your dog test positive for Heartworm Disease? Emancipet can help! We offer affordable, life-saving heartworm treatment for dogs at our Austin Dental and Surgical Center in Austin, Texas, and at our Wayside Drive and Monroe Plaza Clinic locations in Houston, Texas.
4. Mange and Skin Irritations
Warmer weather can worsen existing skin conditions and promote the spread of parasites like mange mites. Signs include itching, hair loss, and red or crusty skin.
Care Tip: Keep your pet’s skin clean and dry, and watch for excessive scratching or patchy fur. Mange needs veterinary attention—don’t wait to get help.
Emancipet Can Help: Our clinics can treat common skin conditions, including mange, at affordable prices.
5. Ear Infections from Swimming
Many dogs love a splash in the pool or lake, but excess moisture in the ears can lead to painful infections. Cats may not swim, but they can get ear issues too, especially if they have allergies.
Care Tip: Dry your dog’s ears thoroughly after swimming or baths. Avoid getting water deep into the ear canal. Monitor for head shaking, odor, or discharge.
Emancipet Can Help: We treat ear infections and offer ear cleanings if needed. Don’t let your pet suffer in silence—ear problems can become chronic if left untreated.
6. Heatstroke and Overheating
Pets can’t sweat like humans, so they’re at high risk of overheating in summer. Flat-faced breeds like bulldogs, seniors pets, overweight pets, and those with thick coats are especially vulnerable.
Care Tip: Never leave pets in parked cars. Provide shade and plenty of water, and avoid outdoor play during the hottest part of the day. If your pet pants excessively or collapses, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
7. Hot Pavement Hazards
Pavement and sand can burn your pet’s paws—especially on sunny afternoons.
Care Tip: Test the pavement with your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Walk during cooler hours, and consider booties for sensitive paws.
8. Travel and Outdoor Safety
Many families travel or go camping during summer, increasing exposure to hazards like wild animals, unfamiliar plants, and unfamiliar environments.It may also increase your dog’s risk for diseases such as leptospirosis, which is transmitted in the urine of wild animals.
Care Tip: Make sure your pet’s vaccines, microchips and ID tags are up to date. Bring a travel kit with food, water, medications, and copies of vet records.
Emancipet Can Help: We offer affordable vaccinations, including for leptospirosis, as well as microchipping and ID tags to help keep your pets protected and identifiable wherever you go.
Keep Summer Safe and Fun for All
Summer should be a time of joy, not stress. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing illness and discomfort for your pets.
Need help with vaccines, flea prevention, heartworm medication, skin or ear concerns? Emancipet is here for you with low-cost, high-quality care for both dogs and cats. Stop by your nearest clinic to get your pet summer-ready today.
Client Testimonials:
“They really helped me with my dogs. One has skin irritation and the medication they gave him has helped tremendously as well as it didn’t cost me an arm and leg.” – Anette B., Emancipet Houston Client.
“Staff was wonderful and super friendly. They were very caring. They were all willing to answer any questions and didn’t make it seem like a burden. Took time to explain her medication and explained the skin infection she had because I never noticed she was suffering. Wonderful place will definitely be using them again.” – Michelle C., Emancipet Philadelphia Client.
“The medicine is working for my cat’s skin. I’m so grateful!!!” – Joy S., Emancipet Austin Client.
