Summer Pet Health Risks That May Require a Diagnostic Scan
Summer is a time of outdoor adventures, longer walks, backyard play, and road trips with your furry companion. But while you enjoy the sunshine, your pet could face a number of health issues that are more common during the warmer months. Some of these concerns can be serious and may require diagnostic imaging like X-rays or ultrasounds to determine what’s going on inside your pet’s body.
At 4 Paws Imaging Center, we specialize in advanced, non-invasive imaging services that help veterinarians detect and treat conditions quickly and accurately. Here's a look at some summer-related health issues that may require a scan to ensure your pet stays healthy and safe.
1. Heatstroke and Internal Organ Damage
One of the most dangerous summer risks for pets is heatstroke. Pets left outside too long, exercised too hard in high temperatures, or kept in hot vehicles can suffer from overheating. Severe heatstroke can cause internal damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, and intestines.
An ultrasound or abdominal scan can help assess the extent of internal damage and guide treatment decisions. Early diagnosis is critical, as organ failure can progress quickly without intervention.
2. Foreign Body Ingestion
Barbecues, picnics, and summer parties often mean more food scraps and tempting items for pets to swallow. Unfortunately, pets don’t always choose wisely—corn cobs, skewers, and even plastic packaging can be ingested. These foreign objects can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages.
If your pet shows signs of vomiting, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain, an X-ray or ultrasound may be necessary to locate and identify the blockage. Fast imaging helps determine whether surgery or non-surgical treatment is required.
3. Injuries from Outdoor Activity
Summer fun sometimes leads to unexpected injuries. Pets can suffer from fractures, sprains, or torn ligaments after running on uneven ground, jumping into pools, or roughhousing at dog parks.
If your pet is limping, not bearing weight on a leg, or showing signs of pain, orthopedic X-rays can pinpoint the issue. Early diagnosis ensures your pet gets the right care, whether it’s rest, medication, or surgery.
4. Tick- and Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
Warmer weather increases the risk of diseases transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes, such as Lyme disease and heartworm. These illnesses often affect internal systems like the heart, lungs, and joints.
In some cases, an ultrasound of the heart or chest cavity may be needed to check for fluid buildup, organ enlargement, or signs of heartworm damage. Imaging provides valuable insight when symptoms such as coughing, lethargy, or difficulty breathing appear.
5. Respiratory Distress in Brachycephalic Breeds
Flat-faced dogs like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Frenchies are especially vulnerable to heat and humidity. Their shortened airways can lead to breathing difficulties that become more severe in hot weather.
If your dog is wheezing, panting excessively, or seems to struggle to breathe, thoracic (chest) imaging can help evaluate the lungs and airway. Quick diagnosis is vital to manage these symptoms before they become life-threatening.
When to Consider Imaging
You know your pet best. If something seems off—whether it’s a change in appetite, unusual behavior, swelling, or signs of pain—consult your veterinarian. If imaging is recommended, know that 4 Paws Imaging Center provides compassionate, low-stress diagnostic services designed with pets in mind.
If your pet is facing a summer health scare, don’t wait. Visit our website, HERE, or call us at (630) 746-1382 to learn more about our imaging services and how we support local veterinary teams in providing quick, accurate diagnoses. Let us help you keep your pet healthy and happy this summer.
