Don’t Overlook These Summer Pet Risks

Portland summers bring beautiful skies, warm weather, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with your pets. While most pet owners are already mindful of risks like ticks, heatstroke, and leaving pets in a hot car, there are a few additional hazards that come with the summer season:

High-Rise Syndrome

High-rise syndrome refers to pets, especially cats, falling from upper-story windows, balconies, or decks. During the summer, open windows and more time spent on patios can increase the risk, particularly in apartments or multi-story homes.

Prevention Tips

• Do not rely on window screens to keep pets safe, as they can easily give way
• Avoid leaving windows open unless they are securely pet-proofed
• Move patio furniture away from railings to prevent climbing or jumping
• Supervise pets on balconies or elevated decks at all times

If a fall occurs, seek veterinary care immediately.

Corn Cobs and Other Food Hazards

Barbecue season brings plenty of tempting smells, but many common foods can be dangerous for pets. Corn cobs are a frequent cause of emergency visits because they can cause intestinal blockages that often require surgery. Other hazards include cooked bones, chocolate, grapes, onions, and high-fat foods.

Prevention Tips

• Learn about common toxic foods through resources like ASPCA Poison Control.
• Keep food and leftovers out of reach during gatherings
• Secure trash cans and food scraps so pets cannot access them

Contact your veterinarian, an emergency animal hospital, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 if you suspect ingestion of something toxic.

Toxic Algae

During warmer months, lakes and rivers around Portland can develop harmful blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria. This toxin is extremely dangerous for pets. Dogs can become seriously ill or die within hours after drinking or swimming in contaminated water.

Symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, staggering, seizures, and pale gums.

Prevention Tips:

• Stay informed with toxic algae growth alerts through the Oregon Health Authority website.
• Avoid stagnant or suspicious-looking water
• Watch for bright green or blue-green surface scum on lakes or ponds

If you suspect exposure, seek emergency care immediately.

Salmon Poisoning

Salmon Poisoning Disease is a serious and potentially fatal illness unique to the Pacific Northwest. It affects dogs that eat raw fish, like salmon or trout, from local rivers and streams. The risk increases in warmer months as more people spend time near waterways.

Symptoms typically appear 5 to 7 days after ingestion and include vomiting, severe diarrhea, lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, fever, loss of appetite, and dehydration.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep pets away from raw or dead fish along rivers, beaches, or trails
• Do not feed raw fish to dogs while fishing or cleaning your catch
• Dispose of fish waste securely so pets cannot access it

Call your regular veterinarian or DoveLewis immediately at 503-228-7281 if your dog develops symptoms of salmon poisoning. Be sure to tell the veterinary team if you suspect your dog ate raw fish.