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Dear fellow Dog Owners,
Welcome to the beautiful Outer Banks! It is a paradise to explore for both man and dog alike. Much of the fun is focused around the spectacular beaches and sounds, and while these areas offer many hours of fun for all, there are a few unique hazards that you should be aware of.
Heat Prostration
Every summer we see several animals that become seriously overheated. This is a potentially life threatening condition which can be easily avoided. It is important to remember that our canine friends cannot perspire as we do, so they rely on panting as the chief way to dissipate heat experienced by their bodies. In order to compensate for this one should always have fresh water available. Exercise should be limited to short intervals with close attention paid to their breathing patterns. When staying at the beach for extended amounts of time give them a place to lay in the shade. Breeds of dogs with shorter snouts or those with a history of respiratory or cardiac problems are even more sensitive to the effects of heat. And remember that even on overcast days it is possible for
dogs to overheat in short periods of time. Lastly, never leave you pet unattended in parked vehicles.
Salt Water Ingestion
While romping at the waters edge some dogs will drink saltwater as if it were fresh water and in large amounts this can be dangerous. The most common effect of this is vomiting and diarrhea. Most time symptoms last a short while, but if they do not subside in a short time it is important they be evaluated by a veterinarian for dehydration. Severe dehydration has the potential to severely damage their internal organs, so be mindful of their drinking habits and make fresh water available at all times when at the water.
Surf Dangers
Waves breaking in the surf can be dangerous to our smaller companions. Cresting waves can pack quite a punch and cause your pet to develop musculoskeletal injury or worse, drown. It is important to watch them closely at all times when they are in the water and do not allow them to swim too far from land. Rip currents, which are powerful underwater currents going out to sea are dangerous to humans and dogs. Make it a habit to know the current beach report before heading down to have some sandy fun.
Be safe and have fun! And if you have any questions or concerns about your pet's health, please call one of the helpful veterinarians.
Stephen M. Samson DVM
Coastal Animal Hospital
This List Of Tips Will Help You & Your Lost Pet Find Each Other.
1. Don't hesitate. The minute you realize your pet is missing, start looking.
2. Call the local animal shelters and animal control centers.
3. Walk and drive through your neighborhood.
4. If after several hours of trying the first three steps you've had no luck, move on to the following tips.
5. Call local veterinarians.
6. Call local radio stations.
7. Make lost pet flyers and distribute.
8. Use the local newspapers.
9. Call area animal shelters daily and visit in person every 3 days.
10. Don't give up.
On the happy day you find your pet, be sure to notify everyone who helped in your search.
PREVENTION
You never know what might happen. No matter how careful you are, there are things you can't control.
1. Have a proper identification tag affixed to your pet's collar.
2. Stick a piece of adhesive tape to your pet's collar with your name, local address and phone number written in ballpoint pen.
3. Keep a current photograph of your pet with you.
4. Ask your local veterinarian for a copy of your pet's health and shot records, before traveling.
Outer Banks SPCA & Dare County
Animal Shelter
Dogs on the Outer Banks, like anywhere else, suffer from minor injuries and illnesses.
Some can be treated by you, the dog owner, but, when in doubt, contact a veterinarian. Some of these injuries/illnesses include:
Open Wounds
Small lacerations and abrasions should be cleaned with soap and water or hydrogen peroxide. A triple antibiotic ointment can be applied twice daily until the wound heals. Deep wounds, lacerations longer than an inch, and wounds that bleed profusely (apply direct pressure to control bleeding), should be seen by a vet.
"Hot Spots"
Any moist dermatitis caused by self-trauma from scratching or chewing, especially on a dog's face or hindquarters, can be classified as a "hot spot". Golden Retrievers are especially prone to these. Trim the hair over the lesion and clean with soap and water or peroxide. Apply any over-the-counter cortisone cream twice daily. See a vet if the condition worsens, often an injection of cortisone or a course of cortisone pills and antibiotics are required for complete relief.
Diarrhea
Simple diarrhea in dogs can be treated with Kaopectate or Pepto-Bismol (approximately 1 tsp per 20 - 30 lbs body weight) 3 or 4 times a day. You can also feed chicken and rice to help firm up the stool. If the diarrhea persists, or if it is accompanied by vomiting, see a vet. Drinking salt water is a common cause of both diarrhea and vomiting in dogs; please bring along fresh drinking water if you take your dog to the beach.
Limping
Running on the beach, climbing stairs, or over-exertion by dogs on vacation can cause all kinds of muscle or joint problems. If your dog is limping, rest him/her for several days. Aspirin can usually be given safely (check with a vet for dosage). If the lameness persists, or if there is obvious pain when the leg is touched, see a veterinarian.
Please use common sense when on vacation with your dog, and you will all enjoy your stay on the Outer Banks. However, if any injury or illness occurs with your dog during your vacation, there are several veterinarians here to help.
Chris Shea DVM
Martin's Point Veterinary Hospital
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