Dog Outdoors

As we approach the summer season, it is most likely that our pets will be outdoor more often than usual.

Not too many summer activities are more enjoyable than a walk though the woods with your pooch. But, as the caretakers of our pets, it is important that we be on guard against deer ticks, the woodland arachnids that transmit Lyme disease.

They are so tiny that in most cases of a tick bite, the tick is never found. Left undetected, Lyme disease can lead to kidney failure as well as vascular and nervous system issues. Symptoms include a loss of appetite, lameness that appears suddenly, a temperature of 103 degrees and swelling of the joints.

The best way to prevent tick bites is through a properly administered tick control program. Consult with your veterinarian regarding proper tick control methods.

The allergies I am talking about has nothing to do with hay fever or runny noses but instead skin issues. If your dog is constantly itching and scratching, losing hair at key sites on his or her body, and licking excessively you may be dealing with an allergy.

Allergies are a major cause of skin disease, discomfort and distress in dogs. Puritis or intense itching is the most characteristic sign of allergies. The itching is caused by the release of histamines from mast cells located throughout the body. Hair loss, redness and skin infections may result secondary to the allergy.

The treatments include antihistamines. This is a good time to take your dog to your vet for consultation and treatment.