Protecting Your Cat: A Guide to Heartworm Prevention

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Yellow Vomit in Cats: Treatment Options for Perth Pet Owners

Why Is Your Perth Cat Vomiting Yellow Liquid? Understanding the Causes and Treatment

If you’ve noticed your feline friend bringing up yellow liquid, you’re not alone. Many Perth cat owners face this concern, and understanding the treatment for yellow liquid vomiting is essential for keeping your pet healthy. This bile-tinged vomit can be alarming, but with proper care and veterinary guidance, most cases are manageable.

What Is That Yellow Liquid?

The yellow substance your cat is vomiting is typically bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. When cats vomit on an empty stomach, bile is often the only thing that comes up, giving it a distinctive yellow or greenish-yellow appearance. This is particularly common in Perth households where cats may have extended periods between meals.

Common Causes in Western Australian Cats

Several factors can trigger bile vomiting in your cat. Hairballs are frequent culprits, especially during Perth’s warmer months when cats groom more frequently. Eating too quickly, dietary indiscretions from hunting local wildlife, or simply going too long between meals can also irritate your cat’s stomach and cause excess bile production.

More serious conditions include inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, liver problems, or intestinal parasites—common in WA’s outdoor cat population. If your cat is vomiting repeatedly, showing lethargy, or refusing food, immediate veterinary attention is necessary.

Treatment Options for Perth Cat Owners

For occasional bile vomiting, simple adjustments often help. Try feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to prevent an empty stomach. Many Perth vets recommend splitting your cat’s daily food into three or four portions rather than one or two large meals.

Ensure your cat has access to fresh water, particularly during Western Australia’s hot summer months when dehydration can worsen digestive issues. A high-quality, easily digestible diet can also reduce stomach irritation.

However, if vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, occurs multiple times daily, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, or behavioural changes, professional treatment from a qualified veterinarian is essential.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Don’t wait if your cat shows signs of distress. Perth’s experienced veterinary professionals can diagnose underlying conditions through physical examinations, blood work, and imaging when necessary. Early intervention often prevents minor issues from becoming serious health problems.

If your cat is experiencing persistent vomiting, contact Port Kennedy Vet for a thorough examination and personalised treatment plan. Our team understands the unique health challenges facing Western Australian cats and can provide the expert care your feline companion deserves.

Your cat’s health is too important to leave to chance—professional guidance ensures the best outcome for your beloved pet.

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Dog Vomiting Yellow: Causes, Treatment, and Related Symptoms

Understanding Why Your Perth Dog Is Unwell

Finding your beloved dog unwell can be distressing for any pet owner. If you’ve noticed your furry companion experiencing dog vomiting yellow bile or foam, you’re not alone. This common concern affects many Perth pet owners, and understanding the causes can help you know when to seek veterinary care.

What Does Yellow Vomit Mean?

When dogs expel yellow or bile-colored liquid, it typically indicates they’re vomiting on an empty stomach. Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Dog vomiting yellow bile often occurs first thing in the morning or after extended periods between meals, a condition known as bilious vomiting syndrome.

While occasional morning bile vomiting may not be serious, frequent episodes warrant professional attention. Perth’s warm climate can also contribute to digestive upset, particularly during summer months when dogs may become dehydrated more easily.

Common Causes of Dog Vomiting

Several factors can trigger vomiting in dogs:

Dietary indiscretion remains one of the most frequent culprits. Dogs that scavenge at Perth’s beaches or parks may consume spoiled food, foreign objects, or toxic substances. Dietary changes introduced too quickly can also upset sensitive stomachs.

Gastrointestinal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, parasites, or infections, require veterinary diagnosis. Pancreatitis, particularly common in dogs consuming high-fat foods, presents with vomiting alongside abdominal pain.

Systemic illnesses such as kidney disease, liver problems, or hormonal imbalances may manifest with vomiting as an early symptom. Even motion sickness during car trips or stress and anxiety can trigger episodes.

Related Symptoms to Monitor

Beyond dog vomiting yellow bile, watch for these warning signs:

Lethargy or weakness
Diarrhea or changes in stool
Loss of appetite lasting more than 24 hours
Abdominal pain or bloating
Excessive drooling or lip-smacking
Dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes)

If your dog exhibits multiple symptoms or vomits repeatedly, immediate veterinary care is essential.

Treatment and When to Visit Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital

For single vomiting episodes without other symptoms, you might withhold food for 12 hours while offering small amounts of water. However, a professional assessment is crucial for persistent vomiting.

The experienced team at Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital serves pet owners throughout Rockingham, Warnbro, and surrounding Perth areas. Our fully equipped facility offers comprehensive diagnostic services, including blood work, imaging, and treatment plans tailored to your dog’s needs.

Don’t wait if you’re concerned about your dog’s health. Contact Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital today for compassionate, professional care your pet deserves.

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Summer Skincare for Dogs: Protecting Perth Pups from Sunburn

Why Western Australian Dogs Need Extra Protection

As Perth temperatures soar during the summer months, proper skincare for dogs becomes essential for pet owners across Western Australia. While many assume their dog’s fur provides adequate protection, the intense Australian sun can cause painful burns and long-term skin damage—particularly for vulnerable breeds and exposed areas.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Light-coated breeds face a heightened risk of sunburn in Perth’s harsh climate. Dogs with white or thin fur, including Dalmatians, Bull Terriers, and Whippets, have minimal natural protection against UV rays. Hairless breeds like the American Hairless Terrier are especially susceptible. Short-nosed breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs also face increased vulnerability around their facial areas.

Even darker-coated dogs aren’t entirely safe. All canines have sensitive zones with minimal fur coverage—noses, ear tips, bellies, and groin areas can burn quickly during peak sunshine hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Applying Dog-Safe Sunscreen

Effective skincare for dogs starts with choosing the right products. Pet-specific sunscreens are formulated without zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), which are toxic if ingested through licking. Look for water-resistant, fragrance-free options with SPF 30 or higher.

Focus application on high-risk zones: the bridge of the nose, ear tips, belly, and any areas with sparse fur. Test a small amount first to check for allergic reactions. Australian veterinarians commonly recommend barrier creams containing titanium dioxide and vitamin E, specifically designed for harsh local conditions.

Creating Shaded Rest Spots

Beyond sunscreen, strategic shade is crucial for summer skincare for dogs. Set up UV-reflective shade cloths, beach umbrellas, or pop-up tents in your backyard and during outdoor adventures. These barriers significantly reduce temperature and UV exposure.

Schedule walks during cooler morning or evening hours when Perth’s sun is less intense. Always provide fresh water to prevent heat exhaustion, which can compound sun-related stress. Consider protective UV clothing—dog rashies offer UPF 50+ protection and are particularly popular among Western Australian pet owners for beach outings.

Recognising and Treating Sunburn

Watch for red, warm, or flaking skin, particularly on exposed areas. Dogs may scratch tender spots or flinch when touched. If sunburn occurs, move your pet indoors immediately and apply cool compresses. Pure aloe vera gel can soothe minor burns, but consult your veterinarian for severe cases involving blisters or fever.

Repeated sun damage increases the risk of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Preventive skincare for dogs isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for long-term health throughout Perth’s extended summer season.

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Best Heartworm Prevention for Cats? Here’s What Vets Recommend

Protecting Your Cat: A Guide to Heartworm Prevention

Unlike dogs, cats have no FDA-approved treatment for heartworm disease once infected. This makes finding the best heartworm prevention for cats essential for every feline, regardless of whether they live indoors or outdoors. Heartworms are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause permanent cardiovascular and respiratory damage in cats, making prevention literally a matter of life and death.

Understanding Your Options

Monthly preventative medications work by eliminating immature heartworm larvae before they mature into adults. These treatments come in three convenient forms: topical solutions, oral chewables, and injectable medications administered every six months. The key is consistency—missing even a single dose can leave your cat vulnerable.

Top Veterinarian-Recommended Medications

Revolution Plus stands out for its comprehensive protection, combining selamectin and sarolaner to prevent heartworms while treating fleas, ticks, ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms. This six-in-one formula makes it a popular choice among veterinarians for cats needing broad-spectrum coverage.

Advantage Multi offers another excellent option, using imidacloprid and moxidectin to prevent heartworms and control fleas, ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms. It’s particularly notable as the only FDA-approved heartworm prevention product for ferrets.

Heartgard for Cats provides ivermectin-based protection in a convenient chewable form. While primarily focused on heartworm prevention, it also removes and controls adult and immature hookworms, making it suitable for kittens as young as 6 weeks old.

Making the Right Choice

When selecting the best heartworm prevention for your cat, consider your cat’s lifestyle and needs. Indoor cats still require protection, as mosquitoes can easily enter homes. Outdoor cats benefit from comprehensive formulas that address multiple parasites. Your veterinarian will test for existing heartworms before prescribing any preventative, as administering medication to an already infected cat can cause severe reactions.

The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round prevention for all cats, starting as early as eight weeks of age. Remember that dosage depends on your cat’s weight, and rapidly growing kittens may need dosage adjustments within weeks.

The Bottom Line

There’s no single “perfect” choice—the best heartworm prevention for cats is the one you’ll reliably administer every month. Whether you prefer topical applications or chewables, consistent use of FDA-approved medications ensures your cat remains protected from this preventable but potentially fatal disease. Consult our veterinarian to determine which option best fits your cat’s health profile and your household needs.

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Are Cat Vaccines Safe in 2026? A WA Vet’s Compassionate Guide

Vaccines for Cats: Why are They Important?

Are Cat Vaccines Safe? Addressing Common Cat Owner Concerns in Western Australia 2026

As a loving cat owner in Western Australia, your pet’s health and happiness are your top priority. In an age of abundant information, it’s natural to have questions about the medical care they receive, especially regarding vaccinations. You may find yourself asking, “Are cat vaccines safe?” This concern, rooted in deep care for your feline friend, is one we hear often and take very seriously. In 2026, navigating vaccine hesitancy requires compassion, clear information, and a trusted partnership with your local vet.

Understanding the Core Concern: Safety First

The short and resoundingly evidence-based answer is yes, cat vaccines are safe. They are among the most rigorously tested and monitored medical products in veterinary science. Before approval, vaccines undergo extensive trials to ensure they are both effective and have a minimal risk of adverse reactions. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, such as slight lethargy, tenderness at the injection site, or a reduced appetite for a day. These minor discomforts are a sign that the immune system is responding and building vital protection.

Severe reactions are exceedingly rare. Veterinarians are trained to both minimise risks—by tailoring vaccine schedules to your cat’s specific lifestyle and health—and to manage any unexpected events promptly. The overwhelming consensus among veterinary bodies worldwide is that the benefits of vaccination vastly outweigh the minimal potential for side effects.

The Greater Risk: What Happens Without Protection?

To make a fully informed decision, it’s crucial to balance the minimal risks of vaccination against the severe and often deadly risks of the diseases they prevent. In Western Australia, our cats can be exposed to viruses like Feline Enteritis (panleukopenia) and the Upper Respiratory Complex (cat flu), which are highly contagious and can spread through indirect contact.

Feline Enteritis has a mortality rate of over 90% in kittens.
Cat Flu, while often not fatal in adults, causes severe suffering and can lead to lifelong chronic health issues.
Even indoor-only cats are at risk, as viruses can be carried in on clothing, shoes, or by other pets.

Choosing not to vaccinate leaves your cat vulnerable to these preventable illnesses, which can result in significant emotional distress for you and costly, intensive treatments for your pet, with no guarantee of a full recovery.

Building a Tailored Health Plan with Your Vet

The key to confident care is an open conversation with your veterinarian. In 2026, the approach is not “one-size-fits-all” but personalised medicine. Your vet will consider your cat’s age, indoor/outdoor lifestyle, local disease outbreaks in WA, and overall health to design a core vaccination schedule and optional lifestyle vaccines that offer precise protection without over-vaccination.

This collaborative approach directly addresses hesitancy by putting your concerns at the centre of your cat’s healthcare strategy. You are an essential part of the team.

Your Trusted Partner in Preventive Care

For cat owners in Perth’s southern suburbs and beyond, establishing a relationship with a compassionate, knowledgeable clinic is the foundation of lifelong health. Port Kennedy Veterinary Hospital is dedicated to providing this exact standard of care.

Our team understands the nuances of vaccine hesitancy and is committed to guiding you through every decision with empathy and expertise. We offer a comprehensive cat vaccination service, utilising only the highest-quality vaccines within a tailored preventive health plan.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your cat’s future. Empower yourself with facts and a supportive veterinary partnership.

Visit the Port Kennedy Vet Cat Vaccinations page to learn more about their compassionate approach and schedule a consultation to discuss a personalised health plan for your feline family member in 2026.

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Best Dog Supplements for Joint Health in Perth, Western Australia

Keep Your Perth Pooch Active: Essential Dog Supplements for Joint Health

dog kidney disease symptoms As a loving dog owner in Perth, seeing your best friend slow down, hesitate before jumping, or struggle with stiffness is heartbreaking. Western Australia’s active lifestyle—from beach runs at Cottesloe to hikes in the Darling Range—demands strong, healthy joints from our canine companions. Whether you have a senior Labrador in Subiaco or an energetic Border Collie in Joondalup, supporting joint health is crucial for their long-term happiness and mobility. This is where high-quality dog supplements for joints become an invaluable part of your pet care routine.

Why Perth Dogs Need Joint Support

Perth’s climate and terrain encourage an active outdoor life, but this can take a toll on joints over time. Larger breeds, active working dogs, and ageing pets are particularly susceptible to wear and tear, which can lead to discomfort and conditions like osteoarthritis. Proactive support helps maintain cartilage, reduce inflammation, and preserve that joyful, bouncy spirit we cherish.

Key Ingredients to Look For in Joint Supplements

When exploring dog supplements for joints, look for these proven ingredients:

Glucosamine & Chondroitin: The building blocks of cartilage, these help repair and maintain joint cushioning.
Green-Lipped Mussel (GLM): A powerhouse from New Zealand waters, rich in omega-3s and natural compounds that reduce inflammation and pain. Many Perth vets highly recommend it.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): A natural sulphur compound that supports connective tissue health and reduces stiffness.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil): Excellent for reducing inflammatory responses in joints, promoting overall coat health—a bonus for our sun-loving Perth dogs.

Choosing the Right Supplement in Perth

The best dog supplements for joints are those your dog will consistently take. Options include palatable chews, powders mixed into food (perfect for a dollop of wet food or pumpkin), or liquid oils. Consistency is key, so choose a format that fits seamlessly into your daily routine in Fremantle, Hillarys, or the Perth Hills.

Before starting any new supplement, it’s wise to check in with your local Perth vet. They can assess your dog’s specific needs, recommend a reputable brand, and ensure the supplement won’t interact with any existing treatments.

A Supplement to an Active Lifestyle

Remember, supplements are most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining an ideal weight is one of the most significant things you can do to ease joint pressure. Pair your chosen dog supplements for joints with appropriate, low-impact exercise—think swimming at a dog-friendly beach or gentle walks—and a balanced diet.

By investing in your dog’s joint health today, you’re investing in more tail wags, more playful adventures in Kings Park, and more happy years by your side. Explore the range of trusted dog supplements for joints available at Perth pet stores and veterinary clinics, and help your furry friend move comfortably through every stage of life.

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Top Tips for a Pet Friendly Christmas Vacation in Western Australia

Unwrap Joy: Your Guide to a Paw-fect Pet-Friendly Christmas Vacation in Western Australia

Dreaming of a summer Christmas filled with sun, surf, and your four-legged family member? Western Australia is the ultimate backdrop for a festive getaway that includes every member of the pack. A Pet Friendly Christmas Vacation here means swapping snowy scenes for sun-drenched beaches and creating new holiday traditions with your furry friend. Here are our top tips for a stress-free, tail-wagging adventure.

Plan Ahead with Paws in Mind

The key to a seamless Pet Friendly Christmas Vacation is preparation. Summer is peak season, so secure your pet-friendly accommodation early. WA offers a fantastic range of options, from holiday homes in Margaret River with secure yards to coastal caravan parks in Esperance. Always confirm pet policies, including any size restrictions and additional fees. Don’t forget to update your pet’s ID tags and consider a pre-trip vet check to ensure they are microchipped, vaccinated, and protected against summer ticks.

Master the Summer Journey

WA’s vast landscapes mean road trips are often part of the fun. Ensure a stress-free drive by acclimatising your pet to the car beforehand. Plan regular rest stops at shaded areas. Many roadside stops in regional WA have space for a quick leg stretch. Never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a minute; summer temperatures soar dangerously high inside vehicles. Pack a dedicated travel kit: their regular food, plenty of fresh water, a bowl, leash, waste bags, favourite toys, and a familiar blanket for comfort in new environments.

Embrace WA’s Pet-Friendly Wonders

The magic of a Pet Friendly Christmas Vacation is exploring together. WA boasts stunning dog-friendly beaches, such as Middleton Beach in Albany and South Beach in Fremantle, perfect for a Christmas morning splash. Seek out shaded walking trails in national parks that permit dogs on leads, such as sections of the Avon Valley. Research pet-welcoming wineries and breweries in the Swan Valley or Ferguson Valley, where the whole family can relax. Always respect local rules, keep your dog on a lead where required, and leave no trace.

Create a Festive & Safe Holiday Haven

Once at your accommodation, help your pet settle by setting up their bed and toys in a quiet, cool space. Decorate mindfully; avoid tempting but hazardous tinsel and electric cords for Christmas lights. If hosting a festive lunch, keep human treats like chocolate, raisins, and cooked bones well out of reach. Instead, prepare a special pet-safe Christmas treat to include them in the feast. Most importantly, maintain their routine as much as possible with regular feeding and walk times amidst the holiday excitement.

Final Thoughts

A Pet Friendly Christmas Vacation in Western Australia is about shared joy and unforgettable moments. With thoughtful planning, a spirit of adventure, and these simple tips, you can gift your family and your beloved pet the ultimate summer Christmas escape. Here’s to sandy paws, happy hearts, and a very merry festive season under the WA sun!

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Do Perth Dogs Sleep More in Summer Western Australia?

Do Dogs Sleep More in Summer? Keeping Your Perth Pup Cool and Rested

As Perth’s famous summer sun beats down and temperatures soar, you might notice your usually energetic dog is spending more time sprawled on the cool tiles, seemingly snoozing the day away. This leads many local pet owners to wonder: do dogs sleep more in the summer?

The short answer is yes, it’s entirely normal for dogs to sleep more during the hotter months, and there are some very good reasons for this behaviour, especially here in Western Australia.

Why the Summer Slumber?

Dogs are much less efficient at cooling down than humans. They primarily regulate their body temperature through panting and by releasing heat through their paw pads and nose. In extreme heat, this system has to work overtime. The intense effort of simply staying cool is physically draining, resulting in increased lethargy and a greater need for rest.

Just like us, dogs are instinctively programmed to conserve energy during the hottest parts of the day. In the wild, this behaviour avoids unnecessary heat exhaustion. Your domestic Perth pup retains this instinct, choosing to rest during the peak UV hours and becoming more active in the cooler mornings and evenings, a pattern you’ve likely observed on your own walks.

Ensuring It’s Normal Sleep, Not a Health Concern

While increased napping is typical, it’s crucial to distinguish between healthy rest and signs of heat-related distress. If your dog’s excessive sleep is accompanied by heavy, laboured panting, drooling, lethargy even when awake, or loss of appetite, it could signal heat stress or heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

How to Help Your Dog Sleep Better (and Safely) in a Perth Summer

You can support your dog’s natural rhythms and ensure their summer sleep is safe and comfortable:

Hydration is Key: Always provide unlimited access to fresh, cool water. Consider adding ice cubes to their bowl.
Create Cool Retreats: Ensure they have access to cool, shaded, and tiled areas indoors. A cool mat or damp towel to lie on can provide significant relief.
Adjust Exercise Routines: Walk your dog only in the early morning or late evening when temperatures have dropped. Avoid hot sand, asphalt, and rocks that can burn their paws.
Never Leave Them in a Car: Not Even for a Few Minutes. The temperature inside a parked car can become lethal in an alarmingly short time.
Consider a Summer Groom: For dogs with thick or long coats, a professional trim can be beneficial, but never shave to the skin, as their coat also provides essential sun protection.

By understanding that dogs sleep more in the summer as a natural response to the heat in Perth, you can provide a supportive environment. Please pay close attention to their behaviour, prioritise their comfort, and enjoy the slower, lazier days of summer together. Always consult your local Perth vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s health or sudden changes in their sleep patterns.

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Tick Borne Dog Diseases to Be Aware of This Summer in Perth, WA

Summer Ticks in Perth, WA: What Every Dog Owner Must Know Now

As Perth’s summer arrives, bringing longer days and more outdoor adventures, it also signals the peak season for one of our dogs’ most dangerous enemies: ticks. For pet owners, understanding tick-borne diseases in dogs is not just about prevention; it’s a critical part of responsible summer care. The warm, humid conditions around our coastal suburbs and bushland create the perfect environment for these parasites, making awareness and proactive action essential.

The Hidden Threat in Our Backyards

Ticks are more than just biting nuisances; they are carriers of serious illnesses. In Western Australia, the primary concern is the Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus), commonly found in dense, native vegetation. However, with animal movement, other species are also a concern. When a tick attaches and feeds, it can transmit pathogens into your dog’s bloodstream, leading to diseases that can escalate from mild symptoms to life-threatening conditions in a matter of days.

Key Tick Borne Diseases in Dogs to Know

Tick Paralysis: This is the most severe and potentially life-threatening condition. It is caused by a neurotoxin in the saliva of the Paralysis Tick. Symptoms typically begin with weakness in the hind legs, a change in bark or meow, and vomiting. This can progress to complete paralysis, including an inability to breathe. It requires immediate veterinary emergency care.
Ehrlichiosis: This bacterial disease has become a significant concern in northern WA and has been detected in travelling dogs. Spread by the Brown Dog Tick, it can cause fever, lethargy, swollen limbs, and spontaneous bleeding. Early treatment is crucial, as chronic infections can be complicated to manage.

Protecting Your Perth Pet This Summer

Vigilance is your first line of defence. Here is your essential summer tick prevention checklist:

Daily Tick Searches: Run your fingers through your dog’s coat every day, paying close attention to the head, neck, ears, chest, between toes, and inside lips. Remove any ticks immediately with a proper tick-removal tool.
Effective Preventatives: Consult your Perth vet for the best tick control product for your dog. Options include chewable tablets, spot-ons, or tick collars that kill ticks on contact. Do not rely on dog-only products if your cat is also at risk.
Garden Maintenance: Keep your backyard tidy by mowing lawns regularly and clearing leaf litter and long grasses where ticks thrive.
Know the Symptoms: Be alert for signs like lethargy, loss of appetite, wobbliness, coughing, or any sudden behaviour change. When it comes to tick borne diseases in dogs, early intervention saves lives.

Act Fast: What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you find a tick, remain calm. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick hook to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it out steadily. Do not twist or jerk. After removal, monitor your dog closely for any signs of illness for at least 24-48 hours, even if you believe you have removed all traces. If symptoms appear, seek veterinary help immediately; do not wait.

This summer, don’t let ticks ruin your fun. By understanding the risks of tick borne diseases in dogs and implementing a robust prevention routine, you can ensure your furry family member stays happy, healthy, and ready to enjoy everything a Perth summer has to offer.

Is your dog protected? Book a tick prevention consultation with Port Kennedy Vet today.

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