Summer is a fun time of year in Fort Collins for pets and their owners. With warm weather and sporting activities a great part of Colorado life, pet owners need to take certain precautions to ensure their pet's health and safety.

The environment in Colorado is semi-arid and with that in mind, pet owners should always have a fresh source of water available for their pets. It is extremely easy for pets to become dehydrated during our warm weather, especially when being active.  When outside, is not recommended that pets drink from our streams or run-off, as giardia, a parasite that will cause gastrointestinal disease, may be present. Therefore, it is very important that fresh water is provided for them by taking a water supply for them when out on hikes or at the park.

Fleas and ticks are becoming an increasing concern for us as they are adapting to our climate and pets from flea endemic states are bringing them here. In addition to creating itchy skin, fleas and ticks can also carry serious diseases that can be harmful or even fatal for your pet.  If your cat goes outdoors, or if your dog is a hiker or camper, we can offer you assistance in choosing the right flea and/or tick preventive. In an effort to help in the current economic times, all of our flea and tick prevention has been priced competitively to assist you in providing protection for your pet. 

Summer is the most active time for our pets and unfortunately, that brings an increase in trauma cases to our veterinary hospital. Dog fights, cat bites, encounters with snakes and automobile accidents are some of the more common problems we see.  An easy way to reduce these risks is to make sure that your dog is leashed when out of the house or yard.  Dogs, like children, should not travel unrestrained inside a car and should never be loose in the back of a pickup truck or other vehicle. Do not leave pets unattended in the car for even a few moments as the temperature even on a partly cloudy day can rise to dangerous levels within a few moments.  

These tips can help to ensure that your pet has a great time along with you this summer!