5 Summer Pet Care Tips from the #VCApets Pawfect Twitter Party

You didn’t happen to be at the #VCApets Twitter Party Tuesday night hosted by Stiletto Media, did ya?

If you were there, you were privy to some pretty terrific info about pets. If you weren’t, I’ve got you covered with this recap.

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More children and pets are outside in the summer than at any other time of year. Dr. Donna Spector, from  VCA Animal Hospitals gave some wonderful seasonal tips to keep everyone safe, happy and comfortable.

Animal Safety Rule for Children

Teach your children this rule about dogs: NO owner, NO petting! Children are at the highest risk for dog bites during the summer months.

Overheated Pets

If your dog is overheated, giving it water is fine, but don’t give it ice or very cold water. Instead place a cool, wet towel over their entire bodies, including foot pads. Using ice drops their temperature too quickly and can lead to crisis.

Sun Protection For Pets

Dogs and cats can get sunburned, especially those with light, short coats. Use low-chemical baby sunscreen, and if they’re in the sun a lot, protective clothing is recommended.

Vacationing with your Pet

Be sure to bring a portable food and water bowl, their ID tags, and a pet first aid kit with you.

For animals prone to motion sickness, try changing where they ride in the car. Medications are also available.

Pet First-Aid Kit Contents

Must-have items include: phone numbers for your vet clinic and poison control center, a muzzle, scissors, tweezers, flash light,bandages, and current medications.

VCA knows its stuff, huh? Now’s the time to check them out, because for a limited time they offer a FREE first exam to all new pet patients. How can you pass up that opp???

There are 521 centers in 41 states, so check to see if there’s a location near you. Many sites offer boarding and grooming too!

They also have a Pet Adoption Partnership Program with nationwide shelters!

 You’ll find all of this information and lots more on the VCA Pets Facebook page!

Disclosure: This is a paid campaign created in collaboration with Stiletto Media and VCA Animal Hospitals.