Plano summers bring bright days, backyard fun, and lakeside relaxation, but they also come with challenges for our pets. From high heat to increased parasite activity and water safety concerns, summer can be a tricky season for cats and dogs. Willow Bend Veterinary Clinic is here to help Plano pet owners stay informed and prepared. With a few simple precautions, your pet can enjoy a safe and comfortable summer, whether you’re at home or on the go.
Keeping Pets Cool in the Texas Heat
The Texas sun can be brutal, and pets are much more sensitive to heat than humans. Dogs and cats have limited methods of cooling themselves off, and overheating can lead to serious health issues like heatstroke.
Tips for Keeping Pets Comfortable
- Limit outdoor time to early morning or late evening
- Provide shaded areas when outdoors and never leave pets in cars
- Use cooling mats, fans, and/or air-conditioned spaces indoors
- Always have fresh water available
- Avoid hot pavement; test it with your hand before walking
Watch for Signs of Heat Distress
Very heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse are all urgent signs that your pet may be suffering from a heat-related medical event. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, contact a veterinarian for emergency services.
Swimming with Your Dog
Water can be a great way to help dogs stay cool, but it also comes with hidden risks, especially around pools or unfamiliar bodies of water.
Canine Water Safety Tips
- Supervise pets around any water source
- Use a doggy life vest for boating or deeper water activities
- Avoid letting pets drink from pools, lakes, or puddles; bring clean water instead
- Rinse pets after swimming to remove chlorine or bacteria
- Dry ears thoroughly to prevent infections, especially in floppy-eared dogs
Even experienced canine swimmers can get tired or disoriented, so keep a close eye on your pet at all times around water.
Parasite Prevention and Your Pet
Warm weather in Texas means parasites like fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are especially active, and they pose serious health risks for pets.
Common Parasites
- Mosquitoes spread heartworm, a potentially fatal disease
- Fleas cause skin irritation and can transmit tapeworms
- Ticks carry Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and other infections
Tips for Avoiding Parasites
- Keep your pet on monthly parasite preventatives all year long
- Ask your vet about the best products for your pet’s breed and lifestyle
- Check pets regularly for ticks and fleas, especially after hikes or outdoor play
Summertime Veterinary Services in Plano, TX
Summer in Plano should be full of fun, not heat exhaustion, tick bites, or avoidable vet visits. Your pet can enjoy all that the season has to offer if you are prepared. Willow Bend Veterinary Clinic has veterinary services, like vaccines, parasite prevention, health certificates, and urgent care, in Plano and for pets from nearby areas like Frisco and Allen. Schedule a vet appointment with us this summer!
