Florida, an outdoor paradise! There is so much to do and to see, especially if you are a dog! Wherever you go, you are surrounded with beaches, attractions and parks. Spending time outdoors with your dog is fun and healthy; however, this picturesque, exotic climate presents some risks of which you should be aware. 
Whether you are enjoying a day on the water, a wildlife walk, or a simple stroll through your neighborhood, consider the potential dangers your dog could encounter.
Heartworm Disease.
One of most common hazards of Florida environment is Heartworm disease: a severe and even life-threatening infection. It is caused by a parasitic worm (Dirofilaria immitis) spread through the mosquito bite. 
The dog becomes the definite host. The larvae travel around the dog’s body and mature over several months to adult reproductive worms, which live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. These parasites cause very severe disease in heart, lungs, vessels, and indirectly in other organs in the body through the inflammatory response.
The typical early signs of heartworm infestation are tiring easily, exercise intolerance, and a soft, deep cough. As the disease progresses these symptoms become more severe and the dog loses weight, breathes more rapidly, and may cough after exercise to the point of fainting. Florida dogs should be on a monthly preventative year round to prevent the infection.
Insect/Arachnid Bites.
Let’s face it – Florida is an “insectville” – we are surrounded by thousands of insects everywhere we go. Any insect bite or sting can cause a reaction in your pet. Most bites are harmless and cause swelling, redness, and itching. If your pet is having a more severe reaction, however, such as facial swelling, breathing difficulty, or collapse, they need to be seen by a veterinarian right away.
Some insects, such as brown recluse and black widow, are more dangerous or even life threatening and typically cause more severe reactions in most pets. The venom from brown recluse bite causes tissue destruction and necrosis.
The black widow envenomation can cause changes to sensation locally, muscle twitching, anxiety, respiratory distress, seizures, and paralysis. In either case your dog should be brought to their veterinarian right away for supportive care and treatments. hyperbaric oxygen therapy can greatly accelerate wound healing.
Snakebites.
It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the snakes in your area. There are 50 species of snakes in Florida, out of which 6 are venomous: the Pygmy Rattlesnake, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake, Timber Rattlesnake, Cottonmouth, Copperhead, and the Coral Snake.
Most of the snakes that you will encounter are not poisonous, however it is better to be safe and avoid encounters. Snakes will not bite unless provoked, but dogs are curious and can easily find themselves face to face with dangerous reptiles. Snakebites can cause severe swelling, pain, decreased clotting ability or uncontrolled bleeding, breathing difficulty, etc.
Bites by venomous snakes are very dangerous and can even be immediately life threatening. It is critical to get your dog to the closest veterinarian immediately.
Heatstroke.
Heatstroke (also called hyperthermia or heat prostration) is an increased body temperature caused by environmental conditions. It is most common in the summer months when heat and humidity rise. Some common causes include: leaving a pet in a parked car, exercising in hot and/or humid conditions, being left outside without adequate shade and water.
Common symptoms include: distress or anxiety, bright red or purple color of your pet’s tongue or gums, excessive salivation, heavy panting, weakness or collapse.
Heat Stroke is a life threatening condition and requires immediate care. Remove your pet from the environment where the overheating occurred and take them immediately to the closest veterinary clinic.
Sago Palm (Miniature Palm Trees)
We teach our children not to eat any plants or fruits, with which they are not familiar, in fear of poisoning. There are many possible toxic plants in Florida. One in particular we should watch for is the Sago Palm.
It is a miniature palm tree lookalike, most commonly used in landscaping and even sold as houseplants. Sago Palms are highly toxic and cause liver failure and death. Every part of the plant is toxic. Even 1 seed can be fatal to a dog. Most pet owners are unaware of the danger in having them in the house or yard.
Whether you live or vacation in Florida, make sure you are aware of the these top 5 hazards, so you and your dogs can fully enjoy the beautiful scenery and weather.
Dr. Kristen Levine represents Critical Vet Care in Sarasota, Florida.