Sponsored Content by Plains Veterinary Hospital

DO

Provide extra water while pets are outside & bring water and a bowl if you take them on the go!

Call the week before travel plans, July 4th fireworks or hurricanes to get your pet’s calming meds prescribed. They are much more effective if started 1-2 days earlier.

Keep track of a summer emergency fund! We see more dog fights, trauma, insect stings, snake bites, heat strokes, and cases of Parvo during summer.

Check the temperature of the pavement with your palm. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws! Let your dog walk in the grass or opt for walking in the early morning or late afternoon.

DON’T

Don’t let pets wait in the car! According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, “the temperature inside your car or truck can increase by 20 degrees in 10 minutes, 30 degrees in 20 minutes, and 40 degrees in 1 hour.”

Don’t completely shave your pet during the summer. Leave at least 1 inch of fur. Their coat is naturally designed to keep them cool during the summer and warm in the winter. Leaving an inch of fur will also protect from sunburn.

Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your pet’s vet and boarding appointments. Vet offices are very busy over the summer and we can’t always squeeze you in (remember those summer time emergencies mentioned earlier?).

Protecting Zachary’s pets since 1997!

(225) 658-2242

20744 LA-964, Zachary, LA