Our summer began with a great start. We all congregated at River Ranch Acres for three days. The grandchildren enjoyed the petting zoo, swimming pool, go ing to the rodeo and picnicking on the patio at Grandma and Grandpa’s trailer. The adults enjoyed playing the not so great golf course but adequate for our ability, and shooting skeet. A fun family outing. May need repeating.

Summer time and the fish are jumping. Time to begin thinking of summer vacations. The family pet requires some preparation, If boarding is in the plans, vaccinations need to be current especially Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine. Some kennels require this vaccination within the last 6 months. Check with the kennel as far as vaccination requirements. Have adequate supplies of required medications (heartworm, flea prevention.)

Lymes disease vaccinations are a must if the destination is north of the Florida border. While we have the tick vector, I have seen no cases of Lymes disease

originating from Florida. On occasion, positively infected dogs have been diagnosed in dogs from the north,
especially the New England area, but nothing l ocally. The disease manifest as a fever, inappitance, joint lameness, and kidney disorders. We test for Lymes disease routinely in our annual workup.

Other vaccinations need to be current such as Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Para influenza and Parvo.

Be aware of the hot car syndrome (heat stroke).

Have a good summer and be prepared for hurricane season.