July 2025

Hello and welcome to our August edition of the Shoreview Current! For those joining us for the first time, our monthly newsletter brings you pet care insights, team spotlights, and the latest news from our hospital.  

Summer is the season of sunshine, adventures, and quality time with our loved ones. While the warm weather is great for outdoor activities, it also comes with extra challenges for pets. This month, we’re sharing tips on keeping pets cool and comfortable in the heat and making road trips safe and fun.

☀️ Beat the Heat

Nobody likes being too hot—especially our pets. Here’s how to keep them cool:

🐕 Never leave pets in cars: Even a few minutes in a parked vehicle can be dangerous.
💧 Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Always have fresh, cool water available.
🌅 Walk smart: Head out in the early morning or evening when sidewalks are cooler.
🐾 Paw check: If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.
🚨 Know the signs: Heavy panting, drooling, or lethargy may mean heatstroke—seek veterinary care right away.

🚗 Road Trips, Pet-Approved

Taking your best friend on the road? Make it safe and stress-free:

🛑 Safety first: Use a harness, seatbelt, or crate for secure travel.
🎒 Pack a pet kit: Food, water, bowls, toys, blanket, a first aid kit, and any current medications.
🕒 Plan pit stops: Breaks every 2–3 hours for stretching, bathroom, and water.
🏨 Pet-friendly stops: Double-check that hotels and parks welcome four-legged guests.
❄️ Keep it cool: Airflow is key—windows down a little, but heads inside the car!

🛣️ Dog-Friendly Road Trip Destinations

Start the car! We’re highlighting two destinations that offer dog‑friendly* activities and accommodations.

Beginner-Friendly: The Seaton Trail (Pickering, Ontario)

The Seaton Trail, located in Pickering, is an ideal starting point for pet parents looking to ease into dog-friendly adventures. Just outside the city, this scenic trail offers winding paths along the Duffins Creek valley, with a mix of forest, meadows, and gentle hills—perfect for curious pups to explore without venturing too far from home. There is also a stream for those dogs who just can’t resist an opportunity to swim.

With multiple access points and flexible trail lengths, you can tailor the hike to your dog’s energy level, making it a low-pressure way to test out gear, routines, and your pup’s trail manners before heading on longer road trips. Its proximity to urban areas means you can enjoy the feel of an outdoor escape while staying closer to home.

The Destination with Something for Everybody: Prince Edward County

Once your dog is comfortable with longer car rides, a trip out to Prince Edward County (PEC) is a wonderful option. Just a few hours from the GTA, PEC offers a laid-back, scenic escape filled with open spaces, dog-welcoming businesses, and plenty of opportunities to explore together.

From sandy stretches at Wellington Rotary Beach and Sandbanks Provincial Park (with designated pet-friendly areas) to countless hiking trails winding through vineyards and countryside, dogs have plenty of room to run and roam. Many local wineries, breweries, and patios welcome pups, making it easy to enjoy tastings without leaving your furry friend behind. Boutique accommodations, from cozy B&Bs to stylish inns, often provide pet-friendly options so the whole family can stay together.

Tip: Plan to make a pit stop at The Big Apple in Colborne. Not only do they have delicious food and fun activities for children (and children at heart), but they also have a dog park! 

* – Adventurous cats may be welcome too, but please check with the facility before your travel.  

🐾 Ready for Summer Adventures?

Whether you’re relaxing in the backyard or heading on a road trip, we’re here to help keep your pets healthy and safe. Need parasite prevention, a vaccine update, or travel documents? Call us before you go—we’ll make sure your pet is road-trip ready.

📞 (416) 485-7387