Summer is a great time for families and the family pet but can also pose real hazards for those unaware.

Make sure that your dog has plenty of shade and clean, fresh water when outdoors. Consider taking your dog for walks and enjoy playtime in the early morning hours before daytime temperatures escalate.

Never leave your pet unattended for any length of time in a parked car. It only takes a few minutes for a pet to succumb to excessive heat which in many cases can prove fatal even when windows are partially rolled down.

Watch your pets around water. It doesn’t take long for a pet to accidently drown in a pool or lake.

Insects and snakes of all sorts are out on patrol as the weather warms. Watch your pet for any signs of stings or bites. Common areas to keep an eye on would be the paws, nose, and face manifested by swelling, redness, itchiness, and/or pain. Call Stockton Hill Animal Hospital should you believe your pet has been bit or stung.

Consider testing your dog for Heartworm disease and start them on Heartworm prevention due to mosquito populations increasing because of warm weather.

Following these simple rules will ensure your pet gets the most out of summer and the wonderful outside activities this season brings.

It is getting closer to that time of year where snakes begin to emerge from their winter hibernation.

There are ways in which one can minimize the risks when living around snakes and that is where we can help! Stockton Hill Animal Hospital offers a rattlesnake vaccine that protects your dog from the toxins emitted from the bite of the Western Diamondback. This vaccine works by neutralizing the venom giving you time to have your pet seen by our veterinarian.

A snake bite is an emergency but with the rattlesnake vaccine, a snake bite does not always equal a deadly outcome for your dog.

During the month of February, Stockton Hill Animal Hospital offers 15% off of dentals for your dog or cat.

Having your pet’s teeth routinely cleaned cuts down on the risk of disease that can affect not only the mouth but your pet’s internal organs as well.

When you schedule your pet’s dental cleaning with us, you will be asked to come in the early morning and at that time, you will see both our technician and our doctor to answer any questions that you may have regarding the procedure. Having your pet’s teeth cleaned requires anesthesia therefor your pet will stay the duration of the day with us and go home with clean and sparkling teeth, not to mention fresh breath as an added bonus.

Call one of our friendly receptionists today and we will be more than happy to schedule a dental for your dog or cat not only during Pet Dental Month, but Monday through Friday, any month of the year.