Petwellness Health Tips

A common misconception is that fleas and other parasites are not a problem in the winter. This is not the case. The fact is, your pets may be exposed to parasites more often than you think in the winter.  Here's why:
 

• The onset of mosquito or flea season is impossible to predict. 
• Midwinter warm spells can produce ideal conditions for fleas to emerge. 
• Under the right environmental conditions, fleas can survive, and even reproduce, indoors during the winter. 
• Whipworm and roundworm eggs are extremely resilient, surviving in the soil in the coldest conditions. 

Your pets should be protected from parasites year-round — even in the winter. As winter continues, enjoy all that the season brings. Just be sure your pet enjoys it as well.
 

For more tips, see categories below.

Cold Weather
 

Finding a Local Kennel
 

Fleas
 

On The Road With Your Pet
 

Planes and Your Pet

Cold Feet
In very cold weather, the pads on the bottom of your dog's or cat's feet can take a beating. They may appear to be slightly cracked. If this becomes a problem, here are some measures you can take:
 

• After each walk, wash off you pet's feet. This will get any ice off of them, and washes off any road salt which could be causing the dryness.
• Trim the hair between your pet's toes: It often collects ice and snow.
• If dryness persists, apply petroleum jelly to the pads prior to walking your dog. 
• In extreme cases, you could buy special boots made of neoprene or similar materials for your pet.
• And, of course, always consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns.

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Preparing Your Pet
Once you've chosen a kennel, make reservations early and confirm. Many kennels suggest that you leave a piece of your clothing so your pet has something familiar and comforting. When you drop off your pet, don't stage an emotional "farewell." Pets are sensitive to your emotions, and this may create anxiety. Be sure to leave your veterinarian's number and a number at which you can be reached in case of an emergency.
 

Visit the Kennel
Make a visit so you can feel comfortable leaving your pet there. Make sure it is clean, and inquire about temperature control, ventilation, and light. Take a look at their playroom and see if animals have enough room to run and exercise. Meet with the people who will be caring for your pet so you can feel comfortable with them. Don't be afraid to bring a list of questions, especially if your pet has particular needs like medication, special feeding or trouble with arthritis. Be sure to mention if you have puppies, kittens or an especially large dog.
 

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Fighting Fleas
A few fleas can quickly become a full-blown infestation, which can be irritating and costly. The best way to fight a flea population is to make sure that it never occurs. Here are some tips:
 

• If you're using a flea preventive, use it year-round. Weather patterns are unpredictable, and flea season can start before you're ready. Under the right conditions, fleas can survive and even reproduce indoors during the winter. Don't give fleas even the smallest gap - use a flea preventive every month.
• All pets in your house should be treated for fleas. If you have more than one pet, treat them ALL for fleas. Fleas can reproduce and thrive on an untreated pet, undermining your efforts of treating your other pets.
• Be aware of pesticides. If you should choose to use a pesticide, carefully read all labels -- especially if you have small children. Strictly adhere to the recommended guidelines to minimize the risks to your pet, your family and the environment
• An ounce of prevention. The best way to deal with a flea problem is before you have one, and the best time to use flea control is before you see fleas. It takes much less effort to prevent flea populations than it does to get rid of them

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Get Health Certificates and Proper ID
Take your pet for a veterinary checkup, and make sure you have a certificate stating that your pet's shots are up to date. Several states require these certificates -- especially for rabies. Also, be certain that your pet has a sturdy collar with two pieces of identification, including a number where you can be reached.
 

Get Hotel/Motel Accommodations in Advance
Be sure pets are welcome in the hotel or motel where you're staying. AAA Tourbooks have good listings of this information, and the American Boarding Kennel Association has a directory of kennels, which may be helpful.
 

Get Your Pet Used to the Car
If your pet isn't already used to the car, start by taking some short trips and gradually building up to longer and longer trips. If your pets experience carsickness, try getting them accustomed to the car when it's not running. Your veterinarian can also prescribe medicine that will help with carsickness.
 

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Be Aware of Airline Procedures
Different airlines have different procedures for transporting pets. You need to know where to drop off and pick up your pet, and how much extra time to plan for. Be certain to find this out well in advance, especially if you're travelling internationally. Also, find out the requirements of your pet's travelling kennel and how to handle feeding.
 

Get Health Certificates and Identification
All airlines require health certificates for a pet to travel with them. Visit your veterinarian well in advance of a plane trip. Your veterinarian may recommend a tranquilizer for your pet when traveling. A sturdy collar with two pieces of identification is also essential. Be sure the collar has a number on it where you can be contacted.
 

Get Hotel/Motel Accommodations in Advance
Be sure pets are welcome in the hotel or motel where you're staying. AAA Tourbooks have good listings of this information, and the American Boarding Kennel Association has a directory of kennels, which may be helpful.
 

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Preparing Your Pet For Warm Weather
Before you get ready to do your Spring-cleaning, don't forget to get your beloved pet ready as well. Make sure you're prepared for the warm weather and all that it brings with it, with these tips:
 

• Trim your dog's nails. 
• Have your dog's hair cut. 
• Start fresh: clean up all of your dog's fecal matter from the backyard. 
• Get new outdoor play toys. 
• Design a new walking route for you and your dog. 

In addition, as your dog begins to spend more time outdoors, there's a greater chance that it may come in contact with fleas and other parasites, such as heartworms, hookworms, roundworms or whipworms. Protect your dog by making sure it is on a monthly flea and heartworm control product such as SENTINEL® (milbemycin oxime/lufenuron) Flavor Tabs®.