June 2026

Dear Catawba Heights Animal Hospital Family,


Summer is officially here! As temperatures rise and families spend more time outdoors, we want to share a few important reminders to help keep your pets healthy and safe.

Flea, Tick & Heartworm Prevention🐾

While we recommend prevention year-round, summer is our highest-risk season for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Heartworm disease is spread by mosquitoes and can cause serious damage to your pet's heart and lungs. If giving monthly medications is difficult or easy to forget, ask us about our convenient long-lasting options:

  • Annual Heartworm Prevention Injection
  • Annual Flea & Tick Prevention Injection

One visit can provide protection for an entire year.

Leptospirosis Vaccine Recommendations🐾

Leptospirosis (Lepto) is a serious bacterial disease that can affect both pets and people. It is spread through wildlife, standing water, and contaminated environments. Veterinary experts now recommend Leptospirosis vaccination for all dogs due to increasing exposure risks. We are seeing Leptospirosis in our area, and even dogs that spend most of their time at home can be exposed. If your dog is not currently vaccinated for Leptospirosis, please ask us about getting them protected.

Fourth of July Fireworks🎆

Many pets experience significant anxiety during fireworks displays. Signs can include panting, pacing, trembling, hiding, vocalizing, and attempts to escape. If your pet struggles with fireworks, thunderstorms, or loud noises, please contact us now to discuss medication options that may help keep them calm and comfortable.

Holiday Closure Reminder

Catawba Heights Animal Hospital will be closed Friday, July 3, 2026, in observance of the Fourth of July holiday. We will reopen Monday, July 6, 2026, at 7:30 AM and resume normal business hours. If your pet needs medication refills or anxiety medications for fireworks, please contact us no later than Thursday, July 2.

Hurricane Season Preparedness

Hurricane season is underway. We recommend keeping the following readily available:

  • Current medications
  • Food and water supplies
  • Leashes and carriers
  • Vaccination records
  • Medical records
  • Identification and microchip information

If you must evacuate, remember that your pets should evacuate too.

Heat Stroke Awareness☀️

Heat stroke can become life-threatening very quickly. Pets at higher risk include brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Shih Tzus, and Boxers, as well as senior, overweight, and medically compromised pets.

Signs of heat stroke include:

  • Excessive panting
  • Bright red gums
  • Weakness or collapse
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Disorientation

Never leave pets in parked vehicles and avoid outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.

Help Us Stay Connected📱

Our primary methods of communication are text messaging and email. Please let us know if your cell phone number or email address has changed so we can continue sending appointment reminders, lab results, and important updates regarding your pet's care.

Thank you for trusting us with your pets' healthcare. We appreciate the opportunity to care for your furry family members and wish everyone a safe, happy, and healthy summer!


Sincerely,


Dr Wallace and the Team at Catawba Heights Animal Hospital