Animal Emergency Care of Braselton

Summer brings endless opportunities for outdoor fun with your pet, but prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn, especially in animals with light-colored or thin fur. Pets, like humans, are susceptible to UV damage, which can cause discomfort, skin damage, or even increase the risk of skin cancer. Protecting your pet from sunburn requires vigilance and proactive care. Here’s how to keep your furry friend safe under the summer sun. Understanding Pet Sunburn Risks Pets with short, light, or sparse fur, such as Dalmatians, white cats, or hairless breeds like Sphynx, are particularly vulnerable to sunburn. Areas with minimal fur, like the nose, ears, belly, and around the eyes, are most at risk. Sunburn in pets can lead to red, inflamed skin, pain, or peeling, and repeated exposure may contribute to serious conditions like squamous cell carcinoma, especially in cats. Hot surfaces like pavement can also burn paw pads, adding to summer hazards. Recognizing Sunburn Symptoms Identifying sunb...

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition in pets, especially during summer when temperatures soar. Pets, particularly dogs and cats, are vulnerable to overheating due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature. Recognizing the signs of heatstroke and knowing how to respond can save your pet’s life. Here’s a guide to identifying and treating heatstroke to ensure your pet’s safety. Understanding Heatstroke in Pets Heatstroke occurs when a pet’s body temperature exceeds 104°F (40°C), overwhelming their cooling mechanisms. Unlike humans, pets primarily cool themselves through panting, which is less effective in extreme heat or humidity. Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., bulldogs, pugs), elderly pets, and those with thick fur or health issues are at higher risk. Common triggers include prolonged exposure to heat, being left in a hot car, or overexertion during outdoor activities. Recognizing Symptoms Early detection is critical. Watch for these signs of heatstroke: - Excessive Panti...

Summer hikes offer a fantastic way to bond with your pet while enjoying nature, but the heat, terrain, and wildlife pose unique challenges. Pets, especially dogs, are prone to heatstroke, dehydration, and injuries during outdoor adventures. With proper preparation, you can ensure your pet stays safe, healthy, and happy on the trail. Here are key strategies to protect your furry companion during summer hikes. Pre-Hike Preparation Before hitting the trail, ensure your pet is fit for the journey. Schedule a vet checkup to confirm they’re healthy enough for physical activity, especially if they’re older or have medical conditions. Ensure vaccinations and flea, tick, and heartworm preventatives are up to date, as trails expose pets to parasites. Pack a pet first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers for tick removal. Bring a leash, collar with ID tags, and a microchip for identification in case your pet gets lost. Hydration and Nutrition High temperatures increase the risk o...

July 4th celebrations bring joy, patriotism, and vibrant firework displays, but for pets, the loud noises and flashing lights can be a source of significant stress and potential danger. Pets, with their acute hearing and sensitive nervous systems, often experience fear and anxiety during fireworks, leading to behaviors like hiding, trembling, or attempting to flee. Ensuring pet safety during this festive time requires proactive measures to minimize stress and prevent injuries. Here are practical steps to keep your furry companions safe and calm. Understanding Firework-Induced Stress Fireworks produce sudden, loud sounds that can startle pets, triggering their flight-or-fight response. Dogs may bark excessively, shake, or try to escape, while cats might hide or become aggressive. According to veterinarians, noise phobias can lead to destructive behavior or self-injury, such as chewing through doors or jumping through windows. Recognizing signs of distress—pacing, panting, or drooling—he...