Because your pet deserves a season full of sunshine—not stress
You’re a careful pet parent.
You know not to leave your dog in a hot car or walk them on scorching pavement. But every summer, we still see pets in urgent care for completely preventable emergencies—not because their people didn’t care, but because no one told them what to watch for.
That’s where we come in.
We’re not here to scare you—we’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Summer brings heat, dehydration, fireworks, fleas, and food hazards… and sometimes, the warning signs are easy to miss.
You don’t need to panic. You just need a plan.
And we’re the veterinary team who’s seen it all. We can help.
At VSP, we’ve treated thousands of urgent cases, and we know what summer emergencies really look like. We believe education is prevention and that being prepared makes you a better protector, not a paranoid one.
Here’s your easy-to-follow plan:
1. Stop Heatstroke Before It Starts
- Heatstroke doesn’t start with collapse. It starts with “they seemed fine.”
- Quiet warning signs: fast breathing, reluctance to move, seeking cool surfaces, flushed skin, bright red gums
Safe choices:
- Hydrate on every outing, and bring a collapsible bowl.
- Walk early or late (skip midday).
- Use the 5-second rule on pavement: place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot to hold, it’s too hot to walk your dog.
- Avoid outdoor time for high-risk pets (flat-faced breeds, seniors, overweight dogs).
Worried? Call us or check into urgent care → Start Here
2. Hydration is More Than a Water Bowl
- Avoid outdoor time for high-risk pets (flat-faced breeds, seniors, overweight dogs).
Fix it with:
- Adding water or low-sodium broth to meals
- Wet food and frozen treats
- Clean water bowls in multiple locations
- Pet fountains (especially for cats)
3. Fireworks Leave More Than Scars
- Noise phobia can change your pet permanently.
- Build a calming ritual:
- Favorite blanket
- Favorite toy
- Familiar scent
- Soothing playlist
4. Summer Food = Emergency Risk
One bite of rib, sausage, or corn cob = pancreatitis, GI blockages, or worse.
Dangerous foods:
- Corn cobs
- Skewers
- Grapes
- Onions
- Greasy meats
- Bones and trimmings
Notice vomiting or lethargy? Contact us.
5. Fleas, Ticks, and Mosquitoes Don’t Wait
Prevention is your only defense—because you’ll never see the bite that matters.
Risks
- Fleas = hot spots, allergies, anemia
- Ticks = Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, vague illness
- Mosquitoes = heartworm (expensive and life-threatening)
Tips that work:
- Use vet-recommended monthly preventives all year.
- Set reminders so you never skip a dose.
- Check your pet’s fur after walks.
6. Know What to Do in an Emergency (Before It Happens)
Emergencies are worse when no one’s prepared.
Here’s what to do now:
- Save our number in your phone:
(502) 901-7990 - Know the nearest ER
- Build a pet go-bag (leash, meds, records, muzzle, carrier) — or download a premade version below.
Here’s what to do now:
- Save our number in your phone:
(502) 901-7990 - Know the nearest ER
- Build a pet go-bag (leash, meds, records, muzzle, carrier) — or download a premade version below.
You Can Have a Magical Summer
Muddy paws. Sun-drenched naps. Heads out the window. We love it too.
But summer magic needs a little planning.
You don’t need to bubble wrap your pet, you just need to stay one step ahead.
And if something ever feels off, even a little? Call us. That’s what we’re here for.
(502) 901-7990
Start your urgent care visit → Reserve a spot in line.
Worried? Unsure? Second-guessing something small?
We can help.
You’re the hero. We’re just your guide.
