You may have already heard on the news that local health officials have reported a leptospirosis outbreak near the Harrison Street corridor in Berkeley, where numerous infected rats have been identified and at least two dogs have tested positive. This is an important reminder for Bay Area pet owners to stay vigilant and proactive.
At MedranoVets, your pet’s health and safety are our top priorities. Here’s everything you need to know about leptospirosis — from first symptoms to treatment and prevention.
A view of leptospira bacteria, spiral-shaped microorganisms that are responsible for the leptospirosis infection. Photography by quantic69/Getty Images/SF GAte
What Is Leptospirosis?
Leptospirosis (often called “lepto”) is a serious bacterial infection that affects dogs and can also spread to humans (zoonotic disease).
It is transmitted through:
Contaminated water (puddles, lakes, stagnant water)
Wet soil or mud
Wildlife urine (rats, raccoons, deer, coyotes, and other mammals)
Contact with infected dog urine
⚠️ Dogs do NOT need to swim in lakes to be exposed — even sniffing or walking through contaminated puddles can pose a risk.
A golden retriever puppy lies in a muddy puddle. Photography by Getty Images/SF Gate
Why Is Berkeley at Risk Right Now?
Health officials have identified:
“Numerous” infected rodents
At least two confirmed canine cases
Increased risk near encampments and high rodent areas
Urban environments — including neighborhoods, parks and sidewalks — can harbor the bacteria.
They were recently exposed to puddles, wildlife areas, or rodent-prone zones
They are drinking or urinating excessively
You notice yellowing of the eyes or gums
🚨 Leptospirosis progresses quickly. Early treatment significantly improves survival rates.
If you’re in the Berkeley area and concerned, contact MedranoVets right away.
Veterinary technician Jazmynne and Dr. Medrano with Juno in San Francisco.
How Is Leptospirosis Treated?
Treatment depends on severity but may include:
Immediate hospitalization
IV fluids for kidney support
Antibiotics (such as doxycycline or penicillin derivatives)
Anti-nausea medication
Pain management
Monitoring of kidney and liver function
Early treatment can be life-saving.
Dogs who recover may still require follow-up testing to ensure kidney and liver function return to normal.
Preventative Care: The Leptospirosis Vaccine
The BEST protection against leptospirosis is vaccination.
Important Updates:
The leptospirosis vaccine is now considered core in our region. Recommended for ALL dogs — including small and toy breeds. Requirements:
Initial series (2 vaccines, 2–4 weeks apart)
Annual booster every 12 months
If your dog’s vaccine was given more than 12 months ago, they are NOT fully protected.
Additional Prevention Tips
Do not allow dogs to drink from puddles or unknown water sources (including public hydration stations)
Avoid stagnant water and muddy areas
Keep food sealed to discourage rodents
Secure trash bins
Schedule annual wellness exams
Marley playing in a stream in Lake Tahoe. Photograph by Dr. Marcia Medrano.
Why Early Vaccination Matters
Dogs that are vaccinated:
Have significantly lower infection risk
Experience milder symptoms if exposed
Are less likely to spread infection
Because leptospirosis can spread to humans, vaccination protects your entire household.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can indoor dogs get leptospirosis?
Yes, urban rodent exposure makes even indoor dogs vulnerable.
Is it contagious between dogs?
Yes, infected dogs can shed bacteria in their urine.
Is it treatable?
Yes, especially when caught early.
Can other pets like cats get leptospirosis?
Yes, cats can get leptospirosis, although it is considered rare compared to dogs. It can be contracted by outdoor cats hunting rodents or drinking contaminated water. Symptoms include fever, lethargy, vomiting and kidney issues. There is currently no vaccine available for cats.
Torta playing with hose water. Photograph by Dr. Medrano.
What To Do Now
If you live near Berkeley — especially near the Harrison Street corridor — we strongly recommend:
Confirm your dog’s lepto vaccine is current (within 12 months)
Schedule vaccination if overdue
Monitor closely for symptoms
Contact MedranoVets with any concerns
📍 Serving Berkeley and surrounding communities 📞 Text us today to schedule a wellness exam and vaccine 1-415-506-8387
Final Thoughts
Leptospirosis is preventable.
With vaccination, early recognition, and prompt treatment, we can protect our pets — and our families — from this serious infection.
If you have questions about your dog’s risk or vaccination status, reach out to MedranoVets. We’re here to help keep your pets safe and healthy all year long.
Living in San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area, pet parents often face busy schedules, traffic and limited appointment availability. That can make it hard to know when veterinary care is truly needed. If you’ve ever searched “When should I take my pet to the vet?” or “Mobile vet near me in San Francisco,” you’re not alone.
At MedranoVets, we provide convenient, compassionate mobile veterinary care throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area, helping pets receive medical attention in the comfort of their own homes whenever possible.
Below, we answer the most common questions Bay Area pet owners ask.
Signs Your Pet Needs a Vet Right Away
Some symptoms should never wait. If your pet shows any of the following signs, seek veterinary care immediately. When in doubt, it’s always safer to act quickly.
🚨 Emergency Warning Signs in Pets
Contact a veterinarian or emergency animal hospital right away if your pet has:
Difficulty breathing or excessive panting
Collapse, seizures or sudden weakness
Severe bleeding or trauma (falls, dog bites, car accidents)
Repeated vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools
Inability to urinate or defecate
Sudden trouble walking or paralysis
🔴 Bloat (GDV) in Dogs — A Life-Threatening Emergency
Bloat is one of the most serious emergencies in dogs and requires immediate care.
Signs of bloat include:
A suddenly swollen or hard abdomen
Unproductive retching or gagging (trying to vomit but nothing comes up)
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Restlessness, pacing or visible anxiety
Rapid or labored breathing
Weakness or collapse
Bloat occurs when the stomach fills with gas and may twist on itself, cutting off blood flow to vital organs. Without emergency treatment, bloat can be fatal within hours.
⚠️ If you suspect bloat, do not wait or monitor at home. Go to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital immediately.
When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet?
Dogs are very good at hiding pain, which means even subtle changes can indicate a problem.
Schedule a vet visit if your dog shows:
Lethargy or decreased energy lasting more than a day
Loss of appetite for 24 hours or more
Limping, stiffness, or difficulty standing or climbing stairs
Persistent itching, licking, or skin irritation
Ear redness, odor, or frequent head shaking
Coughing or sneezing that doesn’t improve
Dogs at Higher Risk for Bloat
While bloat can happen to any dog, it is more common in:
If your dog falls into a higher-risk group, any signs of abdominal swelling or distress should be treated as an emergency.
Large or deep-chested breeds (Great Danes, German Shepherds, Dobermans, Standard Poodles)
Dogs that eat very quickly
Dogs that exercise soon after meals
Senior dogs
When Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?
Cats often hide illness until it becomes serious, so early changes matter.
Bring your cat in if you notice:
Hiding more than usual
Changes in litter box habits
Not eating for 24 hours
Repeated vomiting
Weight loss or muscle loss
Drooling or bad breath
Sudden behavior or personality changes
⚠️ Male cats straining to urinate need immediate veterinary care, as this can quickly become life-threatening.
Is Vomiting or Diarrhea an Emergency?
Occasional stomach upset can happen, but it shouldn’t be ignored.
Contact your vet if:
Vomiting or diarrhea lasts longer than 24 hours
Blood is present
Your pet is lethargic, weak or dehydrated
Your pet is a puppy, kitten, senior or has an existing medical condition
Early intervention often prevents more serious complications.
How Often Should My Pet See a Veterinarian?
Routine wellness care plays a major role in long-term health — especially for pets living in urban environments like San Francisco and the surrounding metropolis area.
🩺 Recommended Veterinary Visit Schedule:
Puppies & kittens: Every 3–4 weeks until fully vaccinated
Adult pets: Once per year
Senior pets (7+ years): Every 6 months
Preventive care helps catch problems early, when they’re easier — and less costly — to treat.
Can I Wait and Monitor My Pet at Home?
For very mild symptoms, short-term monitoring may be appropriate if your pet is eating, drinking and acting normally.
However, do not wait if:
Symptoms worsen
New symptoms appear
Your pet stops eating or drinking
You feel unsure or uncomfortable waiting
A quick call to your veterinarian can help guide next steps.
Why Bay Area Pet Owners Choose Mobile Veterinary Care
Between traffic, parking challenges and anxious pets, traditional clinic visits aren’t always ideal.
🚐 Benefits of Mobile Vet Care with MedranoVets:
Less stress for pets (especially cats and senior animals)
No car rides or crowded waiting rooms
Personalized, one-on-one care
Convenient appointments throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area
When appropriate, early at-home care can prevent conditions from becoming emergencies.
Still Wondering If Your Pet Needs a Vet? We’re Here to Help
If you’re asking, “Should I take my pet to the vet?”, the safest answer is usually yes.
MedranoVets provides mobile veterinary services across San Francisco and surrounding Bay Area communities, bringing high-quality veterinary care directly to your home whenever possible.
📞 Text MedranoVets today to schedule a mobile veterinary visit: 1-415-506-8387!
Christmas is a time of joy, generosity and family—pets included. As a veterinary professional, one of my favorite parts of the season is seeing how deeply people want to care for their animals. Below are two important ways to do just that: choosing gifts that truly support your pet’s well-being and protecting them from common holiday hazards.
Schmidt in his Santa tuxedo. Photo by Dr. Marcia Medrano.
The Best Christmas Gifts for Your Pet’s Health & Happiness
While toys and treats are always fun, the most meaningful gifts are those that support your pet’s physical and mental health all year long.
🎁 Enrichment Toys
Interactive toys, puzzle feeders and snuffle mats stimulate your pet’s brain, reduce anxiety and help prevent destructive boredom— especially helpful during winter months when walks may be shorter.
Vet tip: Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise, particularly for senior pets and high-energy breeds.
🎁 High-Quality Nutrition & Treats
Look for species-appropriate, high-quality treats with minimal ingredients. Carrots, green beans, small pieces of apples and broccoli 🥦 treats are often a great choice for dogs and cats with sensitivities.
Avoid: Rawhide, overly processed chews, and treats with artificial dyes or sweeteners.
🎁 Joint, Dental & Preventive Health Support
Supplements for joints, omega-3s for skin and coat health, and dental chews approved by veterinary dental organizations can be thoughtful and practical gifts.
Bonus gift: A dental cleaning or wellness exam scheduled for the new year.
🎁 Comfort & Rest
Orthopedic beds, heated pads (designed specifically for pets), or calming wraps can dramatically improve comfort — especially for older animals or those with arthritis.
Holiday Toxins & Dangers to Keep Pets Safe This Season
The holidays bring unfamiliar foods, decorations, and guests —many of which pose serious risks to pets.
⚠️ Toxic Foods
Keep pets away from:
Chocolate
Grapes & raisins
Onions, garlic & chives
Alcohol
Xylitol (found in sugar-free baked goods and gum)
Reminder: Even small amounts can be life-threatening.
⚠️ Plants & Decorations
Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly can cause irritation or toxicity
Tinsel, ribbons and ornament hooks can cause dangerous intestinal blockages
Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers or bacteria
Schmidty ready for Christmas Day! Photo by Dr. Marcia Medrano.
⚠️ Candles, Fires & Electrical Cords
Curious tails and noses can easily knock over candles or chew cords. Use flameless candles when possible and keep cords covered or secured.
⚠️ Stress & Escape Risks
Open doors, loud gatherings and schedule changes can cause anxiety or lead to pets escaping.
Tip: Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar with an up-to-date ID.
Reminder: For a toxic pet emergency, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline (855)-764-7661 for 24/7 expert advice!
Download and share our Healthy Christmas Gifts For Pets and Holiday Hazards For Pets reminder!
A Final Christmas Reminder
The greatest gift you can give your pet is presence, patience, and preventive care. A quiet walk, extra cuddle or maintaining routines during a busy season can mean more to them than any wrapped package.
From our veterinary family to yours — wishing you a safe, healthy, and love-filled Christmas Day 🎄🐶🐱
Today is all about celebrating our beloved pets by giving them activities that stimulate their minds and keep them happy. Whether it’s a new puzzle toy, a game of fetch, a catnip-filled treat or even teaching a new trick, there are countless ways to make your pet’s day extra special.
At MedranoVets, we believe that enrichment is crucial for your pet’s overall well-being. It engages their natural behaviors and problem-solving skills, keeping them mentally stimulated and physically active—even when they’re at home.
Enzo enjoying his pile of toys. Photo by Dr. Medrano.
Why Animal Enrichment Matters
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for our furry friends. Without proper enrichment, pets can become bored, anxious or develop behavioral issues. The good news? Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little creativity and some household items, you can transform your pet’s daily routine into an engaging adventure.
Easy Enrichment Ideas for Dogs and Cats
1. Puzzle Feeders & Food Games
Transform mealtime into playtime! Puzzle feeders, treat-dispensing balls, and food mazes require your pet to solve a problem to get their reward. This is especially great for pets who eat too fast and need to slow down.
Pip and her enrichment game. Video by Dr. Medrano.Photo by Saleswset.
Pro Tip: Start with easier puzzles and gradually increase the difficulty as your pet gets better at solving them.
Sock n’ Ball: Put a tennis ball inside a sock and tie it tightly at the top for a simple chew and toss toy
Kitchen Towel Rope: Fold an old kitchen towel into a thick rope and tie knots in it for a tug toy
Empty Cereal Box: Hide treats inside an empty cereal box and let your pet rip it open (supervised play only!)
Crinkle Bottle: Put an empty plastic water bottle inside a sock and tie it securely for a crinkly, engaging toy
4. Training & Trick Sessions
Training isn’t just about obedience—it’s mental exercise! Teaching your pet new commands or refreshing old ones provides excellent cognitive stimulation.
Ideas to try:
Teach a new trick (roll over, shake, spin)
Practice leash training (yes, even cats can learn!)
Work on basic commands in different environments
Try clicker training for precision learning
5. Interactive Play Games
Fetch: Works both indoors and outdoors (use soft toys inside!)
Tug-of-War: Great exercise for both you and your dog—just establish clear rules
Hide-and-Seek: Hide somewhere in your home and call your pet. When they find you, reward them with belly rubs, treats or their favorite toy
Lady Bird playing with her ball by the pool. Video by Allison Carden Hanes.
6. Rotate Toys Regularly
If your pet has accumulated a mountain of toys, chances are some have been forgotten. Keep things fresh by rotating their toy selection every week or two. Choose 3-4 “new” toys to bring out while storing the rest. This keeps your pet excited and engaged—plus it helps reduce clutter!
Important: Always leave out your pet’s favorite comfort toy.
7. Create a Window Watching Station
Set up a cozy window perch where your pet can observe the world outside:
Place a comfy blanket or bed on a windowsill for cats
Position a chair or bench by the window for dogs
Add a bird feeder outside for wildlife entertainment
Stelle watching the birds at her bird feeder. Photo by Allison Carden Hanes.
8. Build an Obstacle Course
Use household items like pillows, chairs, boxes, and blankets to create a simple indoor agility course. Guide your pet through, over, and around obstacles for physical and mental exercise.
9. Storytime & Quality Time
Reading to your pet can help keep them calm and less anxious. Kids especially love this activity! Encourage your child to read their favorite book to your furry friend—it’s bonding time for everyone.
Don’t underestimate the power of simply talking to your pet. They’re the best listeners, and your voice provides comfort and connection.
Take Action Today!
This World Animal Enrichment Day, take a few minutes to engage your furry friend in something fun and enriching. They deserve it! Start with one or two activities from this list and see what your pet enjoys most.
Max enjoying his puzzle feeder. Photo by Dr. Medrano.
Share Your Enrichment Ideas!
We’d love to see how you’re celebrating World Animal Enrichment Day! Tag us on Instagram @medranovets with photos or videos of your pet’s favorite enrichment activities. Let’s inspire each other to make our pets’ days brighter together!
Questions About Your Pet’s Health or Behavior?
At MedranoVets, we provide stress-free veterinary care in the comfort of your home. If you have concerns about your pet’s behavior, activity level, or overall wellness, we’re here to help with personalized care and guidance.
October is National Pet Wellness Month! We will focus on preventative care, benefits of regular check-ups and the importance of the human-animal bond. Let’s dig into seasonal pet health issues, essential wellness services (from dental care to vaccinations), at-home wellness tips and responsible pet ownership. It is incredibly important to stay up to date on veterinary health information to identify early signs of issues in your pet or pets’ health.
Sonny enjoying fall in Brooklyn. Photo by dog mom Pauline Tran.
When it comes to wellness, think proactive care and prevention. Check your calendar for your annual wellness check. Yearly physicals are crucial for early detection of health issues, even in seemingly healthy pets.
🍁 Vaccinations
Core and non-core vaccines protect your pet from many diseases.
Core vaccines are recommended for all cats, regardless of age or lifestyle. Vaccines for feline Panleukopenia virus (FPV), Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), Feline Calicivirus (FCV), Feline Leukemia virus (FeLV) for cats less than one year of age and Rabies are all considered core vaccines.
Non-core vaccines are recommended for cats based on their exposure risk to specific diseases through lifestyle or geographic location. Vaccines for Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydia felis, and FeLV for cats greater than one year of age are considered non-core vaccines.
*Even indoor cats can be exposed to diseases through shared air, visitors, or trips to the groomer or veterinarian.
Halloween festiviites begin in Brooklyn. Photo by Allison Carden Hanes.
Core vaccines highly recommended for all dogs include Rabies, Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, Parainfluenza and Leptospirosis.
Non-core vaccines are based on your dog’s lifestyle, risks and environment and include, Bordetella, Canine Influenza and Lyme disease.
Whether to implement non-core vaccines or not is a one-on-one decision with your veterinarian based on your pet’s age, health and local disease risks. Consider you pet’s lifestyle. Think about where your pet goes, such as parks, boarding facilities and groomers, which can influence the needs of vaccines like Bordetella. Do you take your dog (even cat) to parks or hiking? Your geographic location and proximity to wildlife can affect your dog’s exposure to diseases like Leptospirosis.
Randy on a hike. Photo by cat dad Sol Probosz.
🍁 Dental Health
To prevent dental disease in pets, establish a routine of daily tooth brushing with pet-safe toothpaste, provide safe dental chews and Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)-approved toys, offer a dental-friendly diet, use water additives, and schedule regular veterinary check-ups for professional cleanings to maintain oral hygiene.
A lot of dental prevention is done at home by you the owner! Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. We recommend at least once a week. Be gentle on the gums.Provide safe dental chews and toys to encourage chewing, which helps clean teeth, but avoid hard objects like bones or antlers that can fracture teeth. Talk to your veterinarian about a dental-friendly diet, which includes dry food that helps clean teeth, and consider dental-specific diets or water additives to combat bacteria. And last but not least schedule annual veterinary dental exams: and cleanings under anesthesia to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline and check for any underlying issues.
Visit VOHC for a list of veterinarian approved dental products for dogs and cats.
🍁 Parasite Prevention
Parasites like fleas, ticks, worms, and heartworms pose health risks to pets, including skin irritation, disease transmission, malnutrition, and even death. Regular preventative treatments, prescribed by your veterinarian, are crucial for controlling infestations and protecting your pet and family from potentially zoonotic diseases. A comprehensive prevention plan includes monthly medications, regular grooming, maintaining a clean environment, and routine vet check-ups to monitor your pet’s health and catch issues early.
Common external parasites include fleas, ticks, mites and lice. Common internal parasites include intestinal worms like roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms. They can cause digestive issues, malnutrition, and anemia, particularly in puppies and kittens. Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, these worms live in the heart and lungs, leading to severe respiratory problems and heart failure. Preventative treatments protect your pet from the discomfort and serious health complications that parasites cause, including skin damage, disease, and life-threatening conditions. Some parasites, such as certain types of worms or ticks, can be transmitted to humans, making prevention a family health issue. Treating a severe parasitic infestation is often more expensive than routine preventative care.
Make sure to administer your monthly topical treatments, oral tablets or collars as discussed with your veterinarian to kill and prevent parasites. Regularly wash your pet’s bedding and vacuum your home to eliminate fleas and their eggs. Pick up pet waste in your yard and on walks to prevent the spread of internal parasites and don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards. We advise regular grooming whether that is at home or at the groomer. While you groom your pet, check your pet’s coat for fleas, ticks, and other parasites, especially after outdoor activities. Do not miss or delay your annual or biannual check-ups with your veterinarian and inform them if you have skipped medications such as heartworm medications. You can also avoid areas with tall grass or wooded regions where ticks are more common.
Additionally, visit Pets & Parasites, a fantastic resource to learn more.
Annual puppy check up including a parasite prevention plan. Photo by Dr. Marcia Medrano.
🍁 Additional Seasonal Fall Wellness Tips
To keep pets safe and healthy this autumn, watch for environmental hazards like toxic plants, fallen leaves, and chemicals such as antifreeze; manage Halloween risks by securing all candy and keeping pets away from decorations and trick-or-treaters; be mindful of weather changes with appropriate gear and hydration; and ensure your pet’s activity levels and diet are adjusted for the season to prevent weight gain.
Look out for environmental hazards such as toxic plants. Many fall plants, including chrysanthemums and autumn crocus, are toxic to pets. Ensure any plants you bring indoors are safe for your feline and canine companions. Check your yard for potential dangers like mushrooms, toxic fallen leaves, and acorns, and remove them promptly. Store antifreeze in sealed containers and clean up any spills immediately. Consider switching to pet-safe antifreeze formulas, as the sweet taste of regular antifreeze is highly attractive to dogs and cats but can be fatal. Consult ASPCA Poison Control for a detailed list of toxic plants, foods and household products. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435. They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year to address any animal poison-related emergency.
Halloween will be here before you know it! Protect your pets by keeping all chocolate, candies, and foods containing xylitol (a sugar substitute found in sugar-free treats) completely out of your pet’s reach, as they can cause severe illness, including seizures and liver failure. Small decorations can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. Keep decorations, candles, and open flames out of reach and place a barrier around fireplaces or space heaters. If you dress your pet for Halloween, ensure the costume allows them to see, breathe and move comfortably, and always supervise them. Be conscientious of noise and stress. Trick-or-treating can be overwhelming for pets. Create a quiet, safe space for them and secure them in a room or crate when opening the door for trick-or-treaters.
Schimdt as a lobster. Photo by Dr. Marcia Medrano.
Although cooler weather can be more enjoyable for walks, remember that senior pets, small breeds and pets with thin coats are more susceptible to the cold. Continue regular exercise, but consider adjusting your pet’s routine for the shorter, cooler days. Morning or midday walks may be more comfortable. Do not skimp on hydration. Even though it is cooler, ensure your pet has access to fresh water at all times. Consider protecting your pet’s paws from cold, wet or icy surfaces by using booties. The New York Times shares their top picks here: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-dog-boots/
The Best Dog Boots. Photo by the New York Times.
In fall, watch for respiratory issues in pets caused by increased exposure to fall allergens like mold spores and ragweed pollen, which trigger coughing and sneezing, and by viral infections such as kennel cough as pets spend more time indoors. Other signs include eye and nasal discharge, lethargy, and labored breathing. You should also monitor for signs of increased dust mite exposure and worsening of underlying conditions like asthma. Prompt veterinary care is necessary for any signs of respiratory distress, especially in vulnerable pets.
Symptoms to watch out for include:
Coughing and sneezing
Nasal and eye discharge
Labored or rapid breathing
Wheezing
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Fever
Blue or pale gums: (cyanosis or pallor) indicate a serious oxygen shortage
Common causes of fall respiratory issues include allergens (fallen leaves, decaying vegetation, ragweed pollen), viral infections, dust mites, pollutants (smoke from fireplaces and bonfires) and damp cold conditions.
* Contact your veterinarian promptly if your pet shows any signs of respiratory distress, especially if they are young, elderly, or have a compromised immune system.
Again prevention is key! Keep pets dry after walks in the rain or wet conditions. Ensure your pet has a warm, dry place to retreat to indoors. Maintain a clean home to minimize dust mites. Keep vaccinations up-to-date. Avoid crowded dog parks during outbreaks of respiratory illness.
Make sure to monitor your pet’s weight, as a combination of less activity and seasonal treats can lead to unwanted weight gain.
To help pets with joint pain as the weather cools, keep them warm with heated beds and blankets, provide gentle, low-impact exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and use joint supplements as recommended by a veterinarian. Other helpful strategies include creating a warm and draft-free home environment, using pet ramps to reduce strain, and consulting your vet for potential medications or other therapeutic options like acupuncture or laser therapy.
Lastly, look out for Wellness Wednesday content on our social media handles!
Even though Labor Day has passed, warm weather is still with us! As temperatures remain high, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to keep our beloved pets safe and comfortable. Dogs and cats face unique challenges in hot weather since they only sweat through their paws and rely primarily on panting to cool down. Here’s your comprehensive guide to protecting your furry friends during the warmer months.
Essential Hydration Tips
Always provide fresh, cool water for your pets throughout the day. Just like humans, cats and dogs can become dehydrated quickly in hot weather—even short periods outdoors can lead to mild dehydration. Make sure to place multiple water bowls around your home and always bring water and a portable bowl when heading outside.
To boost hydration, consider feeding canned food or adding water to dry kibble at each meal. Watch for these warning signs of dehydration:
Less energy than usual
Dry nose or gums
Excessive panting
Loss of appetite
A word of caution about shared water bowls: Public hydration stations and communal water bowls can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites and viruses like kennel cough and Giardia, which can spread through saliva and contaminated water. For your pet’s safety, bring a collapsible travel bowl (that can be used for a thermas setup) and your own fresh water, or politely ask vendors for a clean, fresh bowl if needed.
Pet hydration station. Photo: Allison Carden Hanes
Smart Walking and Exercise Strategies
Exercise timing is everything during hot weather. Walk your dogs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are naturally cooler. Before heading out, use the 5-second test: place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your pet’s paws.
When possible, choose grassy or shaded paths over hot sidewalks and asphalt. If you must be outside during peak heat hours, consider investing in protective booties to prevent paw pad burns and blisters. Booties, for example made by Ruffwear are great for outdoor adventures and paw protection.
Effective Cooling Measures
Create multiple cooling options for your pets:
Ensure access to shade, fans and well-ventilated spaces
Set up a kiddie pool or use a spray bottle with cool (not ice-cold) water
Pour cool or room temperature water over your dog’s head, back, paws and belly to encourage natural cooling
Avoid ice-cold water immersion, as this can actually trap heat in their bodies
For indoor cooling, encourage pets to rest on raised beds that allow air circulation underneath. You can also create frozen treats using Kong toys or ice cube molds filled with water or broth (without onion or garlic) mixed with pet-safe treats.
Also, consider breaks. encourage stopping or sitting on walks.
Breckie taking a break cooling off in the bushes. Photo: Dr. Marcia Medrano
Recognizing and Preventing Heatstroke
Certain pets are at higher risk for overheating:
Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds
Dogs with thick coats
Overweight pets
Senior animals
Puppies and kittens
Pictured here is Gus, a brachycephalic pug dog breed. Photo: Dr. Marcia Medrano
Know the warning signs of heatstroke:
Excessive panting and drooling
Vomiting
Lethargy or weakness
Diarrhea
Pet stopping or laying down during walksHA
If you suspect heatstroke, immediately provide cool water, increase air movement around your pet, move them to shade, and contact your veterinarian right away.
Sun Protection for Pets
Just like humans, pets can suffer from sunburn, especially on sensitive areas. Consider applying dog-specific, pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable spots like the nose, ears, and belly. Choose products with SPF 15 or 30 that block both UVA and UVB rays. Avoid products containing zinc oxide or PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) and opt for unscented. Also, do not shave your dog during summer, the long coat actually protects them against sun and heat.
Pest Prevention
Warm weather brings increased activity from harmful pests. Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes thrive in higher temperatures, with mosquitoes posing the additional risk of transmitting heartworms to both dogs and cats. Ensure your pets are on broad-spectrum parasite preventative medication—this includes indoor-only pets, as parasites can enter homes through screens and even on the bottom of shoes.
Creating the Perfect Outdoor Setup
When spending time outside, always establish a shaded resting area for your pets. Encourage regular breaks during playtime and allow pets to retreat indoors when they need relief from the heat. Remember, if you’re feeling warm, your pet is likely feeling even warmer due to their limited ability to cool down. Also, pay closer attention to senior pets. Senior pets deserve extra attention as they may have reduced ability to regulate their body temperature and may not show obvious signs of distress until they’re in serious trouble.
By following these comprehensive safety measures, you can ensure your pets stay happy, healthy, and comfortable throughout the remaining warm weather. Always trust your instincts—if conditions seem too extreme for you, they’re definitely too extreme for your furry companions.
Hi everyone! It’s been a while since I did an introduction. If you have been following along for a long time thank you and welcome to our new followers!
My name is Dr. Marcia Medrano. I’m a first generation Bolivian American who’s always loved animals. I grew up in Miami, Florida surrounded by stray kitties to feed, local iguanas and other critters in my neighborhood. At that time, I knew I always wanted animals in my life.
I attended St George’s University Veterinary School in the Caribbean. It was the best experience of my life and where I met most of my closest friends. We studied horses, sheep, donkeys and goats at the nearby farms and took care of the dogs and cats at the local hospital.
I completed my final clinical year at the University of Pennsylvania. I realized I had more hands-on animal experience than the U.S. students, due to my schooling on an island, I loved every minute.
I eventually ventured to New York, then California where I have been an SF California girl ever since. I worked at several Bay Area Emergency hospitals, such as Berkeley Dog and Cat Hospital where I still practice medicine from time to time. My true calling is at home veterinary medicine. In 2014 I started MedranoVets and I have never been happier. My mobile veterinary practice allows me to provide a stress free experience to all my patients and clients in their most comfortable environment, their home. It is incredibly rewarding to have pets and owners more comfortable for exams and procedures. I can also spend 45-60 mins on a visit, which gives us time to discuss any and all concerns. It is often only in a pets’ home where they can show more authentic behaviors and symptoms. My favorite thing about my job is cuddling dogs and cats during their exam and having pet parents tell me that the visit was so much better than going into an office.
Please share with us what you’d like to see more of on our page! Thank you so much!
Also don’t be shy! Shoot us an email at contact@medvetsf.com to learn more!
