In Marianna, Florida, summer means long, sunny days, rising humidity, and more time outdoors with our animal companions. But while the season brings plenty of joy, it also brings a spike in threats from parasites thriving in the heat to water-related hazards that come with all those lake and pool days. Marianna Animal Hospital has these tips for owners looking to keep pets safe and comfortable through every season, especially the sizzling summer months.

The Parasite Prevention Checklist for Florida Pets

The combination of warm temperatures and high humidity in the Florida Panhandle creates a perfect storm for fleas, ticks, and especially mosquitoes, the carriers of deadly heartworm disease. Without year-round parasite prevention, your pet can be at serious risk, even after just a few mosquito bites.

Heartworm Prevention Is Non-Negotiable
Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially fatal condition transmitted by mosquitoes. All dogs and cats should be on a monthly heartworm preventative, with annual testing even for pets already on prevention.

Flea and Tick Control
These pests thrive in grassy areas, wooded parks, and even your own backyard. They don’t take summers off, and neither should your prevention plan. Choose a vet-recommended topical or oral product that’s safe for your pet’s species and weight.

Yard and Home Awareness
Mow regularly, reduce standing water, and use pet-safe treatments to keep your home and yard a no-go zone for pests.

Water Safety for Dogs

With lakes in the Marianna area and the beach not too far away, it’s no surprise that dogs (and even some adventurous cats!) love to get wet in the summer. But water playtime comes with its own risks.

Always Supervise
Never leave pets alone near water, even if they’re strong swimmers. Dogs can tire quickly, and pool exits aren’t always obvious.

Use a Life Vest for Deeper Waters
Lakes and rivers can have strong currents or drop-offs. Canine life jackets are a safe option for deep water swimming or boat trips.

Avoid Stagnant or Algae-Filled Water
This kind of water can harbor bacteria, parasites, or algae that could be toxic to pets. Always provide fresh drinking water during outings.

Rinse and Dry Post-Swim
Saltwater, chlorine, or lake bacteria can irritate your pet’s skin and ears. Rinse thoroughly and dry well to prevent infections.

Don’t Forget Heat Safety for Your Pet

Even quick outdoor outings can put pets at risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Florida’s humidity reduces the body’s ability to cool itself efficiently, especially in dogs and cats who have limited methods of regulating body temperature.

• Walk pets early or late in the day and never on hot pavement
• Provide shaded areas and lots of cool water
• Never leave pets in parked vehicles, even for a minute
• Monitor for signs of overheating: heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting

If you believe that your pet is suffering from a heat-related incident, contact an emergency veterinary facility right away.

Enjoy the Sunshine with Your Pet This Summer in Marianna, FL

Summertime in Marianna should be full of happy memories, not emergency vet visits. With a proactive parasite prevention plan and smart water and heat safety habits, your pet can enjoy everything this season has to offer. Marianna Animal Hospital has veterinary services like vaccines and parasite prevention for cats and dogs in Marianna, and from neighboring areas like Chipley and Sneads. Ready to gear up for a safer summer? Contact us to schedule an appointment for your pet.