Pet Appreciation Week

It's Pet Appreciation Week! Of course we let our pets know every day just how special they are to us, but this week is about going the extra mile (on that nightly walk) and really showing our furry family members how much we love and cherish them. What can you do to show your pet appreciation this week?

Dog Park Safety

As summer approaches and the weather heats up, pet owners are more likely to frequent dog parks for a fun outdoor escape where their four-legged friends can play and socialize. In fact, more pet owners are utilizing dog parks than ever before.
With a 34 percent increase over the past five years, dog parks are the fastest-growing segment of city parks in the U.S., according to a study by the non-profit Trust for Public Land. As dog park visits increase, remind dog-owning clients about the importance of safety when visiting their favorite dog park.
In 2011, VPI policyholders spent more than $8.6 million on medical conditions that are commonly associated with a visit to the dog park. According to VPI, here are the most common dog park related injuries:

• Sprains and soft tissue injuries
• Lacerations and bite wounds
• Kennel cough/upper respiratory infection
• Insect bites
• Head trauma
• Hyperthermia or heat stroke
• Parasites
• Parvovirus

Before visiting the dog park, make sure your clients understand that dog parks have their rules, just like any other community. Below are a few simple but important tips for ensuring a fun and safe trip to the dog park:

• Obey all posted rules and regulations
• Pay attention to your dog at all times
• Don’t bring a puppy younger than four months old
• Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and has a valid license
• Keep a collar on your dog
• On very warm days, avoid the dog park during peak temperature hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Look for signs of overheating, including profuse and rapid panting, a bright red tongue, thick drooling saliva, and lack of coordination. If this occurs, take your dog to a veterinarian immediately.