Be sure to read Part 1 of this blog series before diving into Part 2 here. Concerns about illness or injury from boarding is common for many dog owners. There are many ways to ensure your pet pal is protected so they can still enjoy social settings, and you can enjoy vacations without worrying about their safety. Here are some more common issues dogs see and suggestions for prevention:

• Fungal infections – These are typically found in the soil and can infect dogs when they sniff or eat contaminated soil or if they have a skin wound that comes in contact with the fungus. Coccidioidomycosis is the most common one in Utah. In general, these fungal infections spread through respiratory tracts and cause fever, coughing, lethargy, or pneumonia-like symptoms. If eaten, you’ll likely see digestive problems.
  • Prevention and treatment vary based on the fungus. Talk to your vet about your concerns for the best treatment. Most reputable boarding facilities won’t have these issues, so it’s more than likely your dog would contract this from a dog park, walk, or your backyard.
• Heartworms – This is spread through mosquitos. Symptoms include coughing, lethargy, difficulty, breathing, and can sadly be fatal.
  • Prevention is easy and comes in many forms. Discuss with you vet the best choice for your dog.
• Heatstroke – During hot weather, you need to watch your dog closely for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting and drooling, anxiousness, weakness, collapse, abnormal gum color. Sadly, this can be fatal.
  • Prevention and treatment include taking the dog to a shaded area and cooled with cold, wet towels that are switched out to remain cool. Transport the dog to the vet immediately if they’re not recovering quickly. Discuss with the boarding facility about how monitored the dogs are while outside, and if you have a dog sensitive to heat (such as pugs or bulldogs), make sure they’ll be heavily monitored while outside on hot days.
• Injuries – Most dogs are having the time of their lives at a doggy daycare. Some dogs may overdo it, especially if they’re used to a more sedentary lifestyle.
  • Prevention includes discussing with the facility about play time and exercising, and ensuring your dog can get a break during the day if they’re not use to the excess excitement. If you notice your dog limping or whining, take them to the vet to see what’s going on.
• Kennel Cough – This is very common for dogs that are in social settings. They typically will get a snotty noise and have a dry, hacking cough.
  • Prevention includes a vaccine, but not all dogs need to get this. Consult with your vey about a Bordetella vaccine, which is often a requirement for many boarding facilities.

Other concerns include rabies, ringworm, and toxic plants. Reputable facilities such as On The Spot Play and Stay are aware of these hazards and goes above and beyond to protect their furry clients. If you have questions, please reach out to us, and if your dog has contracted a serious illness, get them to your vet as soon as possible.