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financial assistance, the Humane Society or C.A.R.E. may assist, otherwise it can be done privately at any Veterinary Practice for a very reasonable cost. There is also a charity organisation called Feline Friends, which operates a ‘Trap Neuter Return’ programme for homeless cats. The organisation will humanely trap the cats, take them to the veterinarian where they will be spayed or neutered, de-wormed and ear-notched (indicating that they have been sterilised). The cats will then be released again at the same location. This is a proven method of controlling the population of homeless cats while ensuring they receive a better quality of life. If you notice a colony of homeless cats near you, please email felinefriendscayman@gmail. com and they will come out to assist. Donations to help their cause are always welcome.
PETS
Looking After Your Pet Heartworm disease, a deadly condition, is endemic in Cayman. It is caused by a blood
parasite that is transmitted by mosquito bites and infects both dogs and cats. Thus, all dogs and cats should be on a monthly heartworm preventative treatment. Ticks and fleas can also be a major problem for your pet. Both pests can be controlled in dogs with NexGuard, a chewable monthly tablet containing an ectoparasiticide which kills fleas and ticks when they bite your pet. An alternative product for dogs and cats is monthly topical Frontline Plus which kills adult ticks, fleas, flea eggs and larvae. Stronghold/Revolution is also available and is convenient for outdoor cats as it also prevents Heartworm disease. Regular inspections to ensure your pets are tick-free are essential. Animals easily pick up ticks and fleas outside and bring them back into the home where these pests can reproduce. If your home becomes infested with fleas or ticks, you may need to perform one or two thorough pest control treatments. This treatment should only be performed by a professional pest control company. You should also treat the garden and kennels.
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Refer to the Pest Control section in the Running Your Home chapter for details. Feline Leukaemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are viral conditions that spread from cat to cat. FeLV can be vaccinated against, however FIV cannot. Reduce the risk of FIV by spaying/neutering them, or better yet, keeping them indoors. Dogs should be vaccinated against Distemper, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Hepatitis and Leptospirosis. Dogs attending a daycare must also be vaccinated against Kennel Cough. Salt water can be toxic if your dog drinks a large quantity of it and can result in hypernatremia (an elevated sodium level). Prevent this by carrying a bottle of fresh water during beach walks. If you see signs of salt poisoning: vomiting, diarrhoea, incoordination, severe depression and/or seizures, take your dog to a veterinarian. After swimming, rinse salt water and chlorine off. If you take your dog on a boat, put a flotation device on them. Avoid letting dogs swim in swampy and canal water as they risk contracting Pythiosis – a rare but often deadly disease. Heatstroke can occur fast if you leave your pet in the car. Avoid long walks during the middle of the day, have breaks during walks and always have fresh water on hand. Be aware that the asphalt gets extremely hot and sensitive paw pads can burn. Symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, vomiting and breathing difficulties. If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, take the animal to a vet immediately as it could be fatal. Insect stings are common here. Curious dogs can be stung by scorpions, bees and other insects. If you notice any swelling around your dog’s face, or other parts of its body, take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
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Rules for Responsible Pet Ownership Failure to keep a dog on a lead in a public place is an offence and liable, on summary conviction, to a fine of CI$500 and three months in prison. A dog should only be off of a lead if they are confined to the owner’s
