VCA Animal Hospitals Shares Essential Summer Safety and Savings Tips for Pet Owners

Keeping Your Pets Safe This Summer

As the summer season rolls in, it's vital for pet owners to be aware of the potential dangers that can affect their furry friends. VCA Animal Hospitals, known for their comprehensive veterinary services, is here to remind us of the necessary precautions we should take to ensure our pets remain safe and healthy during these warmer months.

Understanding Summer Hazards

The summer bring a series of hazards that pet owners must keep in mind. Here’s a breakdown of common dangers:

1. Hot Surfaces: During the sunny days, surfaces like patios and sidewalks can heat up dramatically. For example, when the temperature reaches 85°F, pavement can soar to around 130°F. This can cause burns to a pet's paws if they are not careful.

2. Glow Sticks and Party Items: While celebrations can be fun, items like glow sticks contain chemicals that can be hazardous if ingested. They are also small and pose a choking risk.

3. Corn Cobs and Bones: These are notoriously difficult for pets to digest. Consuming them can lead to serious internal blockages or injuries.

4. Fireworks: The loud sounds and bright lights can frighten pets, leading to stress and potentially causing them to escape. Keeping them secure during firework displays is crucial.

5. Fruits with Pits and Moldy Foods: Many fruits like peaches and avocados contain toxic pits, and moldy foods can result in severe gastrointestinal issues for pets.

6. Toxic Candles and Balloons: Citronella candles can be harmful if ingested, and balloons pose a choking hazard.

7. Swimming Pools: Always supervise your pets around pools. Even if they are good swimmers, they can get tired or ingest harmful pool chemicals by accident.

8. Heatstroke Awareness: It’s essential to always have plenty of cool, fresh water available and never leave pets in cars, even for short periods, as temperatures can quickly rise.

VCA's Summer Care Initiatives

To support the health of animals during the summer months, VCA Animal Hospitals is introducing a series of initiatives tailored to pet owners. They are offering a 50% discount on emergency exams if needed, valid from June 23 to July 15. Pet owners can simply download a coupon to take advantage of this offer.

For those considering regular veterinary care, VCA’s CareClub® membership starts at just $19.99 per month and provides unlimited exams, including emergency visits, ensuring that pets have year-round access to medical attention without the added financial stress. It’s an invaluable resource for pet owners who want to ensure their pets receive continuous care.

Dr. Marie Kerl, Chief Medical Officer for VCA Animal Hospitals, highlights: "Summertime is a wonderful opportunity to make memories with our pets, but it’s also important to take a few extra precautions." She emphasizes that VCA is dedicated to helping pets remain healthy while allowing families to enjoy the summer worry-free.

In Conclusion

As you gear up for a summer filled with outdoor fun, it's vital to remain aware of these potential hazards that could impact your pets. With VCA Animal Hospitals offering support and safety tips, you can ensure that your pets enjoy a safe and happy summer. Don’t forget to take advantage of the emergency care discounts and consider joining the CareClub for peace of mind during the warmer months.

For more information about pet safety or to locate a VCA Animal Hospital near you, please visit www.vca.com. Their commitment to the care and health of pets shines through in every service they provide.