While you all enjoy the fun summer brings, we need to be mindful of safety tips to keep our four-legged friends safe and happy.
Sunburn – Did you know that our pups can get sunburned just like we can? There are sunscreens that are made just for canines, so do not leave home without some. Also, make sure you put their sunscreen on BEFORE they go swimming.
Hot Pavement – If you cannot hold your barefoot on the pavement for five seconds, then it is way too hot for your dog, even just walking to the end of your driveway for the mail. It is better to exercise your dog or get the mail in the early morning or after dark. The common 100-degree-plus summer days can mean we are moving about on a surface as hot as 160 degrees! An egg can fry in five minutes at 131 degrees on the asphalt.
Temp Above 100 Degree and Heat Stroke – Did you realize that Arizona has passed a law that makes it illegal to have your dog on Phoenix trails if the temperature is over 100 degrees? Yes, just 100 degrees. So be aware of the signs of heatstroke. Red gums and tongue, loud excessive panting, drooling or no drooling, vomiting, weakness, lethargy, loss of coordination, rapid heartbeat and seizures are all signs of heat stroke.
What to Do:
* IMMEDIATELY call your vet.
* Move your pet to a cool place or at least shaded.
* Place a cool, not cold, wet cloth on their belly, ears, paws and neck.
* If possible, direct a fan on your pet
What Not to Do:
* DO NOT leave your pet alone.
* Do not force water.
* Do not douse your pet in cold water. This could put your pet in shock.
Hot Cars – It goes without saying, Do not leave your dog in a car, even if you are only running into Circle K. At only 100 degrees outdoors, the inside temperature of your car can reach 140 degrees in just minutes. Once the dog’s temperature reaches 106°, damage to his body’s cellular system and organs may become irreversible. Unfortunately, too many dogs succumb to heat and die needlessly.
Arizona has a “Hot Car Rescue” bill which removes liability for people who break into cars to rescue children or pets. There are guidelines that need to be followed before you do this. You should check the statute, http://aldf.org/cases-campaigns/action-alerts/dogs-in-hot-cars/overview-of-state-laws-leaving-unattended-animals-in-vehicles/.
Bottom line: Always keep an eye on your dog. Don’t leave him unattended. It’s important to exercise common sense and proceed with caution to help keep your dog safe, regardless of the season. Summertime comes with its own set of hazards, so make sure you are familiar with the risks. Learn what warning signs mean trouble. When in doubt, call your vet right away. When all is said and done, it will be much easier for you and your dog to enjoy the summer if you prepare properly.
Stop by to see the Kids! Second Saturday of the month in the Cottonwood Dance Room – 480-600-2828.