Late summer on the Oregon coast is a favorite time for outdoor adventures with pets—but it’s also when certain seasonal hazards are at their peak. At Newport Veterinary Hospital, we want to help keep your furry friends safe and healthy as you soak up the last sunny days of summer.

1. Watch Out for Heat and Hot Surfaces

Even coastal weather can get hot in August. Dogs and cats are vulnerable to heatstroke, especially during midday walks. Asphalt and sand can burn paw pads, even if the air feels cool.

  • Walk your dog in the early morning or evening.
  • Always carry fresh water and a collapsible bowl.
  • If the ground is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

2. Foxtail Seeds: Small but Dangerous

Foxtails are barbed grass seeds common in late summer. They can easily lodge in your pet’s nose, ears, eyes, paws, or under the skin, causing pain, infection, or abscesses.

  • Check your pet’s coat, between toes, and around ears after walks.
  • Watch for paw licking, head shaking, or sudden sneezing.
  • Seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect a foxtail is embedded.

3. Water Safety and Harmful Algae Blooms

Swimming is great exercise, but late summer sometimes brings harmful blue-green algae to lakes and slow-moving water. Ingesting or swimming in contaminated water can be life-threatening.

  • Check local advisories before letting pets swim or drink from natural water sources.
  • Rinse your pet thoroughly after swimming to remove salt or bacteria.
  • Never let pets swim unsupervised in strong currents or near large waves.

4. Parasites Are Still Active

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes don’t take a summer vacation. Late summer is a prime time for bites and parasite-borne diseases.

  • Stay up-to-date on flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
  • Regularly check your pet’s coat and skin after outings.

Enjoy a Safe End to Summer

With a little caution and preparation, you and your pet can enjoy everything the Oregon coast has to offer without worry.

📞 Call Newport Veterinary Hospital at 541-265-7448 to schedule a seasonal wellness exam or parasite prevention refill.