Most dogs love a good hike, whether it be on leash or off. The fresh air, the smells of a million wild things, time alone with the family... it’s dog heaven! Here are some things to think about this season when preparing a hike:

• Microchip ID   If your pet gets lost, loses his collar or your collar phone number doesn’t include an area code, your pet could be lost forever. A microchip can never be lost.
   
• Lyme Disease Vaccination Who needs it when there’s a vaccination that keeps the infectious agent from even entering your dog’s body.
   
• Flea and Tick Protection Don’t forget which products protect against ticks and which ones are waterproof (in case your dog feels like swimming). Not sure if you are using the right thing? Ask your vet’s office for details.
   
• Heartworm Protection Going to a mosquito area? It’s easy for Los Angeles residents to forget all about heartworm, but in most areas of the U.S. it is an important concern.
   
• Rattlesnake Bite Vaccination Most of California is home to one or more rattlesnake species. Vaccination against venom is only recently possible. Why take a chance? Vaccinate before exposure.

Don’t forget that travel to other states almost always requires a USDA Health Certificate. To schedule the necessary examination, give us a call.