July 25 Newsletter

Summer is here, and that means more adventures by the water with our furry friends! Whether you’re heading to the lake, river, or beach—or just relaxing on a boat—there are a few things to keep in mind to help your pet stay safe while having fun.

First, be cautious about blue-green algae, which loves to bloom in warm, still water. If you see water that’s green, scummy, or smells funky, it’s best to keep your dog out of it. These algae can release toxins that are extremely dangerous if ingested—even a quick sip can cause serious illness. When in doubt, skip the swim and stick to the sprinklers at home!

If you’re planning boating trips or visits to deeper waters, consider a doggie life jacket. Even the best swimmers can tire out, especially in waves or currents, and a life vest not only keeps them safe but gives you an easy handle to help them back aboard. Plus, let’s be honest—they look pretty adorable in them!

It’s also important to remember that some water sources can harbor bacteria like leptospirosis. This infection is spread through the urine of wildlife and can lurk in puddles, ponds, or slow-moving streams. It can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans, so if your pet is a big fan of water adventures, talk to us about getting them vaccinated.

Of course, summer fun also means summer heat. Dogs don’t sweat the way we do, so they can overheat quickly on sunny beaches or boats. Make sure they have access to fresh drinking water and a shady spot to cool down. Try to plan active playtime for early morning or evening when it’s cooler, and keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke like heavy panting, drooling, weakness, or collapse.

Finally, if you’re boating, plan ahead to make sure your four-legged first mate is safe on board. Keep them in a secure area, help them get comfortable with getting on and off the boat, and always have a plan for what you’ll do if they take an unexpected swim.

We hope you and your pets have a fantastic, splash-filled summer! If you have questions about water safety, heat protection, or vaccinations like leptospirosis, give us a call—we’re always happy to help keep your pets healthy and happy.