SUMMER PET CARE TIPS

• Pets face a variety of health problems in the warmer weather. Mosquitoes increase dramatically in summer months and carry one of the most deadly ailments household pets suffer-- heartworm. Mosquitoes carry a parasite that causes pulmonary vascular disease that can lead to heart failure. The best way to avoid this deadly illness is to use preventative medication. Heartworm is most common in dogs but cats can also suffer with the disease.

• Wasps, bees and hornets are also a problem during the summer.  Dogs think of flying insects as potential snack food and end up regretting their culinary exploration. Kittens experience stings because of their playfulness. There is no real way to train either dogs or cats to avoid such stings, however they can be treated with antihistamines to reduce swelling that occurs following an attack.

• Since dogs and cats can only release heat through their footpads, cooling properly can pose a real problem, particularly for dogs. Heavy-coated dogs should be clipped before the summer months prove fatal. Even a day that seems mild -- with temperatures in the 70's -- can cause a heat stroke for an animal trapped in a car or closed garage. A dog's normal body temperature is about 101.5 degrees, but left in a closed car or garage can raise their body temperature within a few minutes to 107 degrees. They can suffer dehydration, irreversible brain damage and even death in a very short amount of time.

• Give your pet plenty of water. This not only keeps the animal cool, but it also helps prevent dehydration.

• Don't leave your pet outdoors for extended periods of time in high temperatures. If it isn't possible to bring the animal inside, make sure they have plenty of shade so they are able to get out of the sun. When taking animals for a walk, be careful when walking them on asphalt. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn the pads of your dog's feet causing severe damage. It may be best to wait until evening when the asphalt has had a chance to cool a little. Remember if you like to take long walks or jog with your pet bring water for you and the animal.