Dog Owners Beware Of This Tampa Bay Park
Dog owners beware of this Tampa Bay park. There is a warning out to all owners to be careful when taking your dog to one popular dog beach. Canine distemper…
Launa’s dogs Shadow and Fletch play in sand at Ft. Desoto beach
Photo credit: LaunaDog owners beware of this Tampa Bay park. There is a warning out to all owners to be careful when taking your dog to one popular dog beach.
Canine distemper has been detected at the Fort DeSoto Park campground. According to the county's website, dogs who have recently visited the area are getting sick. First of all, If you bring your dog to the park, do not leave food or water for them unattended outside.
Canine distemper is highly contagious and can be deadly for dogs that have not been vaccinated. Puppies and older dogs can be susceptible due to their age or a compromised immune system.
This is bad news for those of us who love to run and play with our dogs at the beach. Fort DeSoto is one of the best dog beaches in the area. One of those reason being you don't have to have your dog on a leash. They can run free in water and play. Occasionally, dogs will wander up on the dunes but they are warning against it. Racoons in the area may be to blame for the outbreak of Canine distemper. This happened a few years back too at the same time, which is weird. My dog loves going to Fort DeSoto to play and run, but I think I will stay away for awhile.
Canine Distemper Facts
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) describes canine distemper as a "contagious and serious disease" that's caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous system of dogs. Firstly, the virus can weaken a dog's immune system, putting them at risk of developing other infections. Secondly, dogs can develop symptoms right away. If you notice any discharge from the eyes and nose, fever, coughing, lethargy, reduced appetite, vomiting or diarrhea, you should seek vet care immediately.
It can also cause neurological symptoms as well. These include walking in circles or the inability to follow a straight path, head tilting, a lack of coordination, muscle twitches, jaw convulsions, drooling, seizures, and even partial to complete paralysis.
The virus can infect puppies and dogs through airborne exposure from sneezing, coughing or barking. It is spread through shared food and water bowls. Dogs shed the virus through respiratory droplets, saliva, or urine. Dogs can be contagious for several months. So, it's a good idea to not share water bowls with other dogs at dog parks, etc.
Humans and cats are not affected.
How Can You Keep Your Pet From Getting Distemper
Dog owners need to get their pets vaccinated to prevent canine distemper. This vaccination is included in a combination vaccine that also protects against other common viruses. If you have a young puppy or older dog, it's important you keep them away from areas that could be infected with Distemper, like Fort DeSoto park for now.
The 7 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants In The Tampa Bay Area
It's always on dog-parent's mind whenever they go out. Can I bring my dog? With so many outdoor restaurants in the Tampa Bay area, a lot of places are accommodating to our four-legged babies. Some even have canine-friendly food on their menu. Whether you want to be near downtown Tampa or by the beach in St. Pete, we have the list of places to bring along your best friend.
We also have a list of the best dog bars in the Tampa Bay area. A lot of those places don't serve food but occasionally have food trucks. Also, dog bars may also require you register your dog to make sure they are healthy and non-aggressive. The best part about taking your pup to a dog-friendly restaurant is that you don't have to worry about that.
We went to Yelp to see what their recommendations are for the best dog friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay. They had a list of 10 places but we condensed it to our favorite 7 spots (and added a few of our own favorite places.) Another great hack is to download the BringFido app. This app will tell you any dog-friendly restaurant or hotel in your current area.
Here are our favorite 7 dog friendly restaurants in the Tampa Bay area
Ulele
Ulele is a great spot for dogs, kids, date night, or any occasion! Their beautiful shaded patio is the perfect place to hangout with your pup! Plus you can take them for a walk on Tampa's riverwalk after your meal.
World Of Beer
Any World of Beer welcomes dogs! We know the Westchase location will even let dogs hangout inside.
Riveters
Riveters outdoor patio is a great hangout spot for pups.
Salt Shack on the Bay
Enjoy waterfront views of Old Tampa Bay with your pup at Salt Shack on the Bay. This place is such a hidden gem in the Tampa Bay area. They have some of the best seafood and cocktails.
Irish 31
Irish 31 is one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa Bay! They even have a special canine casserole that you can order for your pup!
Clear Sky Draught House
Clear Sky Draught House in Dunedin has a huge patio that is perfect for doggos.
Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill
If you and your pup are ever down in St. Pete beach head to Buoys Waterfront Bar & Grill. You can hangout on their upstairs patio for those perfect sunset views, or head to the bar downstairs. Just know your bartender might serve your dog first!
