Many tourists come to Virginia Beach with their pets. There are a lot of pet-friendly places here – for example, Woodstock Community Park, Founders Inn and Spa, Bella Monte restaurant and many others. However, tourists should remember that a hot climate and high humidity are the norm in Virginia Beach. Therefore, it is important for cat and dog owners to be aware of how to properly care for their pets. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of caring for animals in Virginia Beach’s coastal climate – sun protection, ensuring proper nutrition, and disease prevention.
Preventive inspection
Frequent visits to the veterinarian will help identify and treat diseases early. It is recommended to have preventive examinations at least twice a year, and always before traveling to the hot climate of Virginia Beach. Your veterinarian can advise on additional preventative measures based on your pet’s climate and health. Many pet owners also do a cat breed dna test to identify genetic diseases that can be prevented in time. If you are coming from a colder climate, a visit to the vet is a must. You can also do a check-up upon arrival – there are many veterinary clinics in Virginia Beach that provide a wide range of services for pets, such as Bay Beach Veterinary Hospital or Owl Creek Veterinary Hospital.
Sun protection
Dangers of Sun Exposure
The hot sun can be dangerous for cats and dogs, especially those with light or fine coats. They may suffer from sunburn, heatstroke, and dehydration. It is important to remember that animal skin is just as vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation as human skin.
Means of protection
To protect your pets from the sun, follow these guidelines:
- Sunscreen protection. Numerous customized sunscreens are available for animals. Apply them to the nose, ears, and belly, or anywhere without much fur.
- Clothes with sun protection. For dogs, there are lightweight clothing and UV-protecting coverings available. You can use specific bibs for cats.
- Shaded areas. Provide shady spots on the house’s property so that pets can hide from the sun. It’s crucial that animals can always find a cool spot in the house or yard.
Limiting time in the sun
Plan your walks with your pet for the early hours of the morning or late evening when the sun isn’t as strong as it is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in Virginia Beach. Additionally, you can go to pet-friendly places such Redwing Metro Park or Bayville Farms Park, where there are trees that provide shade from the sun.
Ensuring proper nutrition
Water and hydration
In hot climates, animals’ need for water increases. Always ensure that your pets have access to fresh and clean water. Change the water in the bowls regularly and monitor its temperature – it should not be too warm. But also, do not give very cold water – it can cause problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a key role in keeping your pets healthy. In coastal climates, it is important to monitor:
- Balanced diet. Feed needs to be of the highest caliber and include all required vitamins and minerals. For advice on your pet’s ideal diet, speak with your veterinarian.
- Light food in hot weather. In hot weather, reduce your caloric intake to avoid overheating. Include more wet food to help maintain hydration levels.
Supplements and vitamins
Discuss with your veterinarian the need to add special supplements and vitamins to your pet’s diet that can improve their overall health and help them better cope with heat. You’ll find all the vitamins you need for your pets in Virginia Beach.
Disease Prevention
Diseases associated with hot climates
The Virginia Beach coast is characterized by high humidity and warmth. This in turn creates favorable conditions for the development of various diseases. These include skin infections, parasitic diseases and heart problems. Therefore, be sure to check with your veterinarian which medications are best to use in different cases. But both tips will be as follows.
Prevention of parasites
Ticks and fleas are common along the coast and can cause serious problems for pets. To prevent infection, use special anti-parasite collars, drops or sprays. Regularly inspect your pet’s fur and skin after walks.
Hygiene procedures
Bathing and regular grooming help maintain healthy skin and prevent disease. Use special shampoos for animals. First of all, pay attention to those cosmetics that are suitable for frequent use. For cats, regular brushing helps prevent matting and improves the overall condition of the coat.
Conclusion
Living on the coast requires attention to the specific needs of pets. In Virginia Beach, cat and dog owners need to consider the climate and take steps to protect their pets from heat, sunburn, and parasites. Regular veterinary visits, good nutrition, and good hygiene will help keep your pets healthy and happy in coastal climates.
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